Bath Life – Issue 542

ISSUE 542 / FEBRUARY 2026 / £5

WORDS OF WIDCOMBE

Extolling the virtues of this eclectic enclave

BATH LIFE WINTER PARTY PICTURE EXCLUSIVE

HER GOOD LIFE

ISSUE 542 / FEBRUARY 2026 / LOCAL BOY MAKES GOOD JOKES

Felicity Kendal shares her art influences

REWIRING THE PAST Sustainability, technology and historic homes

WEST

SNOWED UNDER Why a little town goes snowdrop crazy!

BOY

ON CLOUD NINE Small versions

large version

The colour of mist is this year’s décor trend

Small versions

large version

large version large version

COMEDIAN RUSSELL HOWARD ON WHY BATH WILL ALWAYS HAVE HIS HEART

DISCOVER BESPOKE CUSTOM RENEWABLE ENERGY SOLUTIONS

SULIS

ELECTRICAL SERVICES LTD

CONTACT US ON: 01225 413431, OR: HELLO@SULIS-ELECTRICAL.CO.UK | WWW.SULIS-ELECTRICAL.CO.UK

O

PHOTO BY NARR ATED FR AMES; W W W.NARR ATED FR AMES

PHOTO BY DAVID VENNI

EDITOR’S LETTER

ne of the best things about being an editor of a magazine celebrating Bath is learning every issue just how much love people have for this city. Our cover star, the brilliantly funny, mega-successful and surprisingly down-to-earth comedian and TV presenter Russell Howard (also seen left) is one such fan. Born in Bath and having lived near Radstock, he has a joyous enthusiasm and nostalgia for the area. Turn to page 26 to read about his early gigs in the old comedy clubs of Bath, his love for Schwartz burgers, and why he can’t wait to hear his riotous family laugh at the Forum when he plays later this month (and again in October).

Elsewhere, we hear praise for the little enclave of Widcombe from the traders who know it best. Full disclosure, we too at MediaClash are based here. It’s close to the city and yet has its own, distinctive vibe. It’s got so much in one little stretch – pubs, cafés, an entertainment venue, the best indie gift shops, and a rage painting centre. Yup, there’s rage painting going on at the unique Splasherist at the end of the Parade. We recently had a work gathering there – full hazmat-suit style coverings, a glass of wine, and we all let rip. Splashing, slashing, and splattering paint everywhere.

I’d never done a canvas before and, while I’m the first to admit it’s no masterpiece – I love it. It sits in my kitchen – a little reminder of a great and slightly bonkers day out at our Widcombe office.

SARAH MOOLLA Follow us on

@bathlifemag

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 3

HEADLINE SPONSOR

AWARDS 2026

CELEBRATE YOUR TEAMS, TREAT YOUR CLIENTS PLATINUM SPONSOR

CATEGORY SPONSORS

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FEATURE SPONSORS

RECORD NUMBER ENTERED. THESE ARE OUR 2026 FINALISTS ARTS & CREATIVE Sponsored by Bath Spa University • Britishbookart • The Corsham Gallery • Creative Cupboard • The Egg at Theatre Royal Bath • Ling Design • Music Workshop • The Natural Theatre Company • Sarah Epsom • Sonder & Lime • Splasherist

BAR & PUB

Sponsored by Alliance Wales & West • The Bell Inn • Boom Battle Bar Bath • The Drawing Rooms • Hop Pole Inn • Sub 13 • Three Horseshoes • The Welly

BUSINESS SERVICES

• Attinger Jack • Carnsight Communications • Commercial Cleaning Somerset • Eat PR and Marketing • ESGovernance • Project N • The Studio • Telperion • UBC Bath

CHARITY

• Bath Cats and Dogs Home • Bath and District Samaritans • The Carers’ Centre • Children’s Hospice South West • Dorothy House • Evie’s Gift • I Can & I Am • Julian House • The Lily Foundation Charity • Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance Charity

CIVIC & COMMUNITY • Bath Carnival • Bath Spa University • Bath Women’s Fund • CaliUnity • Fairfield House Bath • Hands to Hold • Lets Go Girls • Phoenix Allstars Cheerleaders • Radio Bath

EDUCATION

Sponsored by The Forum, Bath • Bath Rugby Foundation • Bath Spa University • Elac Study Vacations • Kids Planet • Kingswood School

• Languages United • Mighty Splash Swim School • Monkton Combe School

EMPLOYER

Sponsored by Bath Rugby Aspire To Move • BLB Solicitors • Catering Services International • Equisoft • Juice Recruitment • Mitchell Eley Gould Architects • Novia Global

EVENT

Sponsored by DoubleTree by Hilton, Bath • Baskervilles School of Gymnastics • Bath Carnival • The Bath Independent Market • Bath Model United Nations Conference 2025 • Bath Pumpkin Patch at Newton Farm • Bath Spa Live • The Jesters Comedy Club • Robbie Williams Live in Concert at the Royal Crescent • RUHX Walk of Life

HAIR & BEAUTY

Sponsored by Creative Bath • B Hairdressing • Dudes n Dolls Beauty • Giuseppe’s of Bath • Rebecca Garcia Levy at The Lansdown Clinic • Saqua Beauty Clinic

HEALTH & WELLBEING • BathFitFam • CaliUnity • CrossFit Bath • DEADLEG Run Club • Deisie Wellness • Extracted • Hybrid Health • Little Dreams Bath and Swindon • Phoenix Allstars Cheerleaders • Sulis Hospital Bath • TONIQLife • Vitality Day Spa

HOMES & INTERIORS

Sponsored by Bath Life • Bright Studio Architects • The Curator’s House • Design Seven • deVOL Kitchens • Divine Savages • Emily Day Interiors • Goose Collaborative • Henham Interiors • Kelly Marie Kitchen Interiors • Woodhouse and Law

LEGAL & FINANCIAL Sponsored by Apex City of Bath Hotel • BLB Solicitors • Fidelius • GA Energy • Gooding Accounts • Goughs Solicitors • Hartsfield • Milsted Langdon • Novia Global • Windsor Hill Mortgages

LEGENDS

Sponsored by Boom Battle Bar • The Apartment Company • Baskervilles School of Gymnastics • Bath Racecourse • The Bell Inn • Juice Recruitment • Larkhall Butchers • Sub 13

LEISURE & TOURISM

Sponsored by Robun • Bath Racecourse • Bath Spa Hotel • Fairfield House Bath • In & Beyond Bath • Lane7 • Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa • The Old Bell Hotel • Pippa Rose Travel • Rococo of Bath • Sungate

NEW BUSINESS

Sponsored by Aspire To Move • Blaax Coffee Co • The C-Suite • Coret Coffee And Wine • Flowr Sourdough • The House Of Abigail • LUMA Climbing • Manipura House • Neighbourhood Warminster • POLYMATHIC • Roost Bath • Sarthi Authentic Indian Restaurant Bath • TEA Architects

PEOPLE SERVICES Sponsored by Floresco • Catering Services International • Dlux Smiles • Gadby Leadership Consulting • Juice Recruitment • KeystoneHR • Third House • The Visa Office • White Horse Employment Network

PROPERTY

Sponsored by Bath Property Awards • AGM Planning Consultants

#BathLifeAwards

• Aspire To Move • Bath Heritage Building • Bath Leasehold Management • Clean Break Properties • Dundas Building Surveying • Joint Living • Mitchell Eley Gould Architects • Rosie Marlow Personal Estate Agent • Signal Box Yard

RESTAURANT

Sponsored by Savills • Bandook • The Beefy Boys • Bikanos Indian Cuisine • Emberwood • Goldstone Food at The Curfew • Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa • Rootspice • Sarthi Authentic Indian Restaurant Bath

RETAILER

• The Bath Humbug Sweet Shop • Hartley Farm Shop • Larkhall Butchers • Shrew • Somer by Bath Spa University • Woodhouse & Law

SMALL BUSINESS

Sponsored by Minuteman Press, Bath • Bullfrog Bottles • EDITALL and Orca Media • Extracted • Kelly Marie Kitchen Interiors • MH Tyres Bath • My Event Concierge • Nomads BBQ and Deli • Rednine • Salt & Pepper Models • Third House

SUSTAINABILITY

Sponsored by EntreConf • Bath Garden Design • Bath Pumpkin Patch at Newton Farm • Canalside Landscaping and Green Space Management • Canned Wine Group • Climate Hub • Hartley Farm Shop • Knights Beekeeping • Sulis Electrical Services

TECHNOLOGY

• Apollo Technology • Digital Wonderlab • Equisoft • insight-space • Jitty • Marlin Communications • Novia Global • POLYMATHIC • Truespeed

COVER We chat to Russell Howard ahead of his gig at The Forum (page 26). Photo by David Venni

26 RUSSELL HOWARD The presenter and comedian talks Bath,

parks, and algorithms

THE ARTS

38

PHOTO BY K ATHARINE DAVIES

BIG INTERVIEW

31 ARTS INTRO The Bath Art Fair returns to the Pavilion 32 WHAT’S ON People to see, places to go 34 CULTURE CLUB The arty picks of Felicity Kendal 37 BOOKS Mr B and his novel ideas

STREET FEATURE

38 WIDCOMBE The wonders of Widcombe by those in the know

FOOD & DRINK

51 NEWS FEED Nuggets from the foodie scene 52 RESTAURANT The Welly’s giving it some welly

LIFESTYLE

55 SHOP LEAD The ‘clouded judgement’ of Pantone 56 EDITOR’S CHOICE The white-not-quite home accessories 58 GARDENS A celebration of the snowdrop

58

NETWORK

62 NETWORK LEAD On your Marks – yes, it’s open!

66 CAREER PATH How Jon Carson made whisky his world

PROPERTY

69 PROPERTY LEAD The new city centre townhouse up for sale 70 PROPERTY NEWS The latest from the market 72 SHOWCASE Explore a beautiful Tramshed apartment 78 PROPERTY RESTORATION Technology and renovation

DEPARTMENTS

13 SPOTLIGHT Shining a light on the positive 15 SCENE Hello Bath Life party people!

25 FLATLINE Flats on feeding the machine 90 BATH LIVES Meet physicist Ventsislav Valev

72

Editor Sarah Moolla sarah.moolla@mediaclash.co.uk Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors Nic Bottomley, Elsie Chadwick, David Flatman, and Nick Woodhouse Commercial director Pat White pat.white@mediaclash.co.uk Business development manager Annabel North annabel.north@mediaclash.co.uk Business development manager Dan Nichols dan.nichols@mediaclash.co.uk Business development executive Ruby Coburn ruby. coburn@mediaclash.co.uk Production and distribution manager Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Bath Life MediaClash, Media House, 1 Widcombe Parade, Bath, BA2 4JT. tel: 01225 475800; www.mediaclash.co.uk. Instagram @TheMediaClash ©All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrates the best of local living: Bath and Bristol.

Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help. Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk

10 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

PHOTO BY NARRATED FRAMES; W W W.NARRATEDFRAMES.COM

Issue 542 / February 2026

YOUR LOCAL ESTATE AGENTS WITH NATIONAL COVERAGE

www.bathandrural.com 36 Gay Street, Bath | 01225 320032

SPOTLIGHT

THE ROARING SIXTIES

Classic lions, classic cars captured in 1967

Longleat first opened its Wiltshire estate to a never-before-seen world of African lions in April 1966. The pioneering new concept in wildlife conservation was initiated by the 6th Marquess of Bath, and featured 50 lions in a secured area, with other animals, including giraffes and hippos, added later that same year.

To help them mark the occasion, Longleat is looking for people who share the same April birthday.

Scott Ashman, head of operations at Longleat, explains, “Turning 60 is a moment worth celebrating, and we realised there are people across the country reaching that milestone at the same time as the Safari Park. We wanted to open the doors and invite them to celebrate with us.

We’re offering free entry to anyone turning 60 in April so they can enjoy the day with family and friends and be part of this anniversary weekend.”

The diamond anniversary garden party is taking place over the Easter weekend of 11-12 April with live music, traditional games and family-friendly entertainment. Those eligible can book a free ticket using the code sixty26.

For more: www.longleat.co.uk The original 1966 poster

LUCKY 13

Thirteen bobsleigh and skeleton athletes who train at the University of Bath have been selected for Team GB at the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games, which opened on 6 February.

World champion Matt Weston and fellow World Cup winner Marcus Wyatt line up in the men’s skeleton, while Amelia Coltman, Tabby Stoecker and Freya Tarbit make their Olympic debuts in the women’s event. All five are also in contention for the mixed team race, which features on the Olympic programme for the first time. Brad Hall, Britain’s most successful male World Cup pilot, contests a third Games in the four-man bobsleigh with Greg Cackett, Taylor Lawrence and Leon Greenwood, plus reserve Alex Cartagena. Adelé Nicoll races in both monobob and two-woman alongside Ashleigh Nelson, a Summer–Winter Olympian, with Kya Placide reserve.

The University of Bath, home to the UK’s only outdoor push-start track, has now produced athletes for multiple Winter Olympics including Amy Williams who won gold at Vancouver in 2010.

For more: www.teambath.com

The bobsleigh and skeleton squads headed to Winter Olympics

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 13

SCENE T H E L AT E S T A DV E N T U R E S I N PA R T Y- GO I N G AC ROSS BAT H

Caitlin Glazsher and Poppy Town

Nishit Chotai

Rachel Gasson, Fleur Stieffenhofer and Sarah Atley

Indianna Blunden

In it to win it

Jack Flower

LIFE OF THE PARTY

December saw our much-anticipated Winter Party held as a thank you to supporters, friends and clients of Bath Life. The venue was the Drawing Rooms and the vibe was one of cosy merriment and high spirited fun with more than 100 people enjoying a night with a casino, live music and a karaoke room.

Delicious, specially themed Bath Life cocktails were created by the Drawing Room team, and we were particularly drawn to ‘It’s a Wonderful Bath Life’!

Photos by Narrated Frames;

Amanda Allerton and Mansi Chavan

www.narratedframes.com

Jamie Watkins, Tom Kennedy, Dan Ghadimi and Kate Garden

For more: Instagram @Bath Life

Lucy Mulliner and Jenna Travers

Soyful Alom

Laurence Curtis and Abigail Carter

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 15

Sarah Atley

Pete Helme

Ruby Coburn

Kate Abbey

Betty Bhandari and Allan Lloyd Place your bets please!

Sarah Loveless and Megan Solomon Music maestro

Pat White and George Denning

16 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

The cocktails flowed

move to page 1 Sarah x

Fiona Patton and Melissa Anderson

John Law

Angela Ghent, David Ghent and Paul Walshe

Ben Sempala-Ntege and Sarah Sempala-Ntege

Jack King and Mia Whitbourn Kate Garden and Dan Ghadimi

Steph Dodd and Annabel North Kirsty Lake and Matt Bielby

Alex Neal and Mark Saint Caitlin Glazsher

Nick Steel

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 17

Beverley Wallis, Sarah Tarling and Mike Elliott

Tina Marshall-Kelliher, Andrew Kelliher and Rosie Thompson

Lucy Slade and Claire Smith

WINDOWS OF OPPORTUNITY Buro Happold hosted the Advent Window launch, in partnership with Bath Rugby Foundation, from its offices on Bath riverside.

Guests from across the city came together to celebrate the launch of the campaign, which illuminated the office throughout December and January spreading festive cheer while also raising funds and awareness for a local cause.

Amy Richardson and Christopher Rowell

Photos by Craig Palmer For more: www.burohappold.com

Richard Godfrey, Andrew Grant and Neil Harvey How the windows at Camden Mill looked throughout December and January

18 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Anthony Davies, Simon Pilkington, Kat Marsh, Trish Baber and Emily McDonald

Sallyanne Lewis, Ian Kilvington and Ricardo Codinhoto Victoria Barnett, Andrew Kelliher, Tina Marshall-Kelliher and Ali Woodhead

Adrian Abbs and Delaram Moin Paul Shepherd and Artem Holstov

Richard Bertinet and Justine Sharpe

Cobb Farr table enjoying the Beaujolais

Les Redwood

THE NOUVEAU NICHE

The Eiffel Tower, peut-etre?

Bath Rugby Foundation (BRF) hosted a Beaujolais Nouveau Dinner at The Ivy Brasserie, Bath, at the end of November. Not only did it celebrate the 2025 release of the young wine, but the event also raised vital funds to help the work of the BRF. Lucy Slade, the foundation’s communications manager, says, “We’re incredibly grateful to our event sponsors and to The Ivy for their generous hospitality. Every person who joined us helped raise essential funds that will enable us to continue changing the lives of children and young people across our community.”

For more: www.bathrugbyfoundation.com

Oh la la, c'est Novia Global

STAY COLLECTED

Events organisation Bath Arts Collective (BAC) celebrated its second birthday at the end of November. Held at Boston Tea Party, the evening event brought together the many partners and freelancers the BAC have worked with to thank them for their support and celebrate the new creative endeavours that have emerged.

Rosie Crocker, Rosa Moore, Nic Bottomley, Kate Hall and Laura Garcia-Moreno

Photos by Nick Spratling; www.theofficialphotographer.co.uk For more: www.batharts.co.uk

Kim Hoefkens-Lee, Matilda Dickinson, Ash Manganaro and Kate Stacey

20 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Emma Cross, Tom Deller and Penny Jenkins

Rosie Crocker, Jasmine Barker, Hazel Plowman, Kate Abbey, Elysia Collins, Kate Hall and Laura Garcia-Moreno

ESTAT E

Garden flat at Avonpark with 2 beds.

Lovely views across the valley. £435,000

A GE NT

Cottage with garden. 2 bedrooms, 3 receptions in Bradford on Avon. £375,000

Triple aspect 2 bedroom apartment, amazing views at Avonpark. £420,000

Retirement properties in & around Bradford-on-Avon for Spring 2026 Bradford on Avon Town centre, 2 beds, super views & balcony. £280,000

More available - all chain free.

Cottage at Abbey Mill, 2 bedrooms, lounge/diner, town centre. £230,000

Riverside views in town centre!

Smartly presented 1 bed flat. £165,000

Three bed cottage in the town centre, lounge diner & garden. £265,000

First floor 2 bedroom flat in the heart of Avonpark with views. £385,000

If you’re thinking of selling, please call or pop in for a confidential chat about your move

Years as an Estate Agent

Tel: 01225 866747

Years as an independent

27 Market Street, Bradford-on-Avon, BA15 1LL email: info@jeremyjenkins.co.uk • www.jeremyjenkins.co.uk

We think they got an answer right

Are you sure that's brain food?

Guess who?

WINNING WAYS

The planet Uranus of course

Around 25 Bath businesses put their brainpower to the test at the annual Brain of Bath quiz, hosted by local homeless charity Julian House at the Bath Pavilion. Teams tackled quirky general knowledge challenges – from identifying smells to naming London Underground stations – raising £25,025 to support the charity’s work. The atmosphere was electric as the final scores were announced, with Deloitte clinching victory by a 14-point margin ahead of runners-up Quizzards of Odd. For more: www.julianhouse.org.uk

The Deloitte team are crowned the Brains of Bath!

GET UP AND GLOW!

Hundreds of fundraisers hopped, skipped and walked 3km in the dark at Odd Down Sports Ground to support the Royal United Hospital.

The Glow Run organised by RUHX followed a two-lap lit-up course to help guide participants of all ages and abilities. The fundraisers also enjoyed face painting and light-up accessories, with every finisher receiving a medal and the chance to boogie at the UV school-style disco.

For more: www.ruhx.org.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 23

FLAT LINE

© BETTY BHANDARI BRAND PHOTOGRAPHY; WWW.BETTYBHANDARIBRANDPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

“A machine I can’t rely on is a machine I’m getting rid of”

Man versus machine

Flats fights the tech giants, and nearly wins

A

mini-lifetime ago my ex-wife and I bought a little cottage near Bradford on-Avon and planned to do it up, as they say. With all the plans in our heads, we got an architect to make some cartoons and get quotes from proper builders. The quotes were utterly ridiculous – roughly thrice our budget at the time – so we decided to use my mate. A great man, he eventually got the job done and we saved massive chunks of money. Or so we thought.

With the assistance of my ex-father-in-law – one of the world’s best and most generous men – we managed to get everything done that we’d wanted. As it happened, it had taken 18 months instead of the quoted six, and had cost almost precisely what those ridiculous builders had said it would. Maybe even a bit more. So anyway, there we were, reflecting on how we’d got ourselves into such a situation.

Live and learn etc.

Looking back, lots of it was my fault. My ex-wife was – and is – very clever at making houses look and feel lovely for not much money. Because this was her field, so to speak,

I effectively took ownership of all the ‘tech stuff’. We had the best televisions and lots of them. We had speakers in the ceilings. We had surround-sound in the garden. We had a luxury, integrated coffee machine. We had a range cooker that was bigger than most family cars. We had underfloor heating put into the utility room so that wet dogs could dry more efficiently. Said dogs even had a warm tap installed for their post-walk showers. We even had mains gas piped to my barbecue, as the idea of running out was unthinkable. To cap it all off, we had an entire cupboard – and a big one – dedicated to our ‘home network’.

Genuinely, I still have no idea what this means or what this was. It hummed and buzzed and had many layers and many wires and cables.

What did it do? Couldn’t tell you. What I do remember is what it all cost, which was a lot.

This home network was burdensome, always needing a quick on-off or a whack, or a call to the bloke who fitted it all. Moving from that house a few years later, I found my approach had changed significantly with regards to all that techy stuff, and a house or two later, it has become further reduced still.

What I want from technology in the home is for it to make my life easier and for it to work every single time, forever. A machine I can’t rely on is a machine I’m getting rid of asap.

We’re not mates; they work for me. So if they don’t work, ta da.

Now we have an app-controlled heating system at home, which is brilliant actually.

It saves us heating the entire house when we don’t need to, which is the whole point, but it’s taken about three years to get it all running smoothly. And we rarely go a week without having to replace batteries somewhere upstairs. But overall it’s a winner.

We have a boiling water tap – genius. Get one. We have a robot mower – same. I have power and hot and cold water for my outdoor kitchen, which isn’t optional for me, but that’s about it. We don’t want washing machines and fridges and coffee makers that operate via yet another app. And who wants bloody Bluetooth in their toothbrush?

Lots of gadgets and tech I love and find fascinating. But I also don’t mind actually doing some things myself. So as the world of home-tech progresses at, presumably, warp speed, I must say it feels rather nice to be almost entirely oblivious to it all.

Having said all this, said ex-wife did get me some pink, electric salt and pepper dispensers for my birthday and they are both useful and loveable. And I still want one of those toilets that will wash my bottom for me. Otherwise, though, I like to sit and think how much money I’m saving by simply turning things on and off myself, by grinding my own coffee beans, and by not having 63 televisions. It feels good. Now, is there such a thing as a robot vacuum cleaner that can also climb stairs?

To be continued.

David Flatman is an ex-Bath and England rugby star turned TV pundit and rent-o-mic. Follow him on X/Twitter @davidflatman and Insta @dflatman

Awdry Law Have Arrived...

Right in the heart of your City. Right by your side.

3 Northumberland Buildings, Wood St. | awdry.law | 01225 417111

“My first ever actual paid gig was at The Fez”

26 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

BIG INTERVIEW Russell performed at open mic nights in Bath when just a teenager

STANDING TALL

Russell Howard used to catch the bus to play tiny gigs in Bath and now he sells out world tours. Here he reflects on the magic of those early days and the importance of making his family laugh

R

Words by Sarah Moolla ussell Howard, the mega-career comedian and presenter, with the mega-watt smile, is a man who breaks records with his mega-tours. His Round The World tour in 2017 broke the record for the most consecutive solo performances at London’s Royal Albert Hall with 10 sold-out shows. The same year, he scooped the accolade of the biggest Western-style stand-up show in China. And his world tour Russell Howard Live sold over 435,000 tickets across 237 gigs in 30 countries. So, to learn that the two February Bath dates for his huge Don’t Tell The Algorithm UK and Ireland tour sold out almost immediately should come as no surprise. Neither should the fact that tickets for the two extra dates later added, 28 and 29 October, are also fast disappearing.

But what might surprise is that Russell, who was born in Bath and grew up in Radstock, actually started out his career in Bath playing open mic nights at the tiny comedy club underneath the now-closed music venue Moles on George Street. “Before the gigs, my first memories of Bath are being at the bus station. I’d be with my mum and nan, and we would be coming here to visit the ‘fancy’

shops,” he laughs.

“I started coming again when I was in my late teens to try out stand-up. My first ever gig was underneath Moles. I was doing an open spot on a professional bill, and Micky Flanagan was performing. I loved it, really loved it. My first ever actual paid gig was at The Fez, which was in Cadillacs. I was 19 years old, Johnny Vegas was headlining, and I got £50. I felt like a millionaire.

It was amazing this young lad from Radstock could just rock up on the bus and do a gig. I felt like I was going to Buckingham Palace.”

Russell is wistfully nostalgic about those days of ‘tiny room’ comedy and sees it as a crying shame that these places don’t exist to the same extent anymore. “You need these little rooms and basements – whether it’s for stand-up or music – as an outlet for all the kids who don’t come from an artsy world, to just be able to give things a whirl.

“But I guess there’s more appeal in property development of these spaces because, per square foot, there’s more money to be had in turning them into flats.

You can’t say to the business manager, ‘You need to stop, because there’s magic in those there rooms.’

“Maybe we need to start thinking about putting up little blue plaques for the real legends of comedy – ‘Jo Brand, Peter Kay, Sarah Millican performed here’ kind

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 27

Russell Howard is performing his UK & Ireland tour Don’t Tell The Algorithm at The Forum on 26 & 27 February, and again on 28 & 29 October.

For more: www.bathforum.co.uk | www.russell-howard.co.uk

above: Russell and the ultimate selfie at The London Palladium in 2023; below: It’s big gig vibes at Wembley; inset: Straight talking with Russell

“I’ve got a big, chaotic, high-energy family”

QUICK Q’S WITH RUSSELL

What does Don’t Tell The Algorithm mean?

It’s about putting our phones away and having a night together as humans.

I’m quite obsessed about the way it feels like we’ve been under surveillance inadvertently for the past 20 years. We thought we were figuring out the world, and actually, we’ve given billionaires access to our diaries. And now we’re like ‘Oh god, they know everything.’ The show will change as I go along, though, depending as well on what is happening in the world, so the October shows will be different to the February ones.

Who makes you laugh?

My family. On the comedy circuit – I really like Andrew Bird. He’s a guy from Northampton who writes really neatly, and has that everyman quality. He’s excellent.

Where do you go for drinks out in Bath?

Me and cousins go on a Christmas drink round Bath city centre called The Great Swig, and that usually involves Vino, Vino, Hall & Woodhouse, the Crystal Palace and The Raven – I love The Raven. If it’s a quick coffee, then Café au Lait by Bath Spa Station – they need to get a baby seat though.

For a quick bite to eat?

I’ll have a Schwartz Brothers burger, with all the works. But I can’t eat it outside anymore – I have to grab and go. Otherwise, inevitably, someone will come up to me and say, “Jesus Christ, mate, what happened? Why did your life go so wrong?”

Favourite Bath culture spot to visit?

None. Sorry. I could lie. But no, none. I do go to parks though. My son loves parks – Sydney Gardens is lovely, and you can see the trains passing. Oh, and Bath on the Beach when that was set up in Victoria Park during the summer – that was excellent!

Would you ever move back to the West Country Yeah, I’d be tempted, maybe one day.

28 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

PHOTO BY DAVID VENNI

of thing. We need to appreciate what these little comedy clubs could be.”

“But I was walking round Bath the other day, and I did notice a new comedy space called Jesters on Alfred Street – so that’s really positive.” Will he go visit if he gets the chance? “I did have to fight the urge to pop down and see who was playing, but being honest, I do think it’s a bit weird for them if they notice I’ve turned up to watch. I’d rather play a gig alongside them and chat afterwards.”

While he might now live in Buckinghamshire following the move from London after his and wife Cerys’s son was born, Russell is still a regular visitor to the city he once lived in. “I actually lived on Russell Street for a year – oh the arrogance! It’s a brilliant, big little city. I do really love it.” It’s his huge family connection, though, that lures him back, including a sister who lives in Bath, a brother in nearby Bristol, and an estimated 50 cousins and second cousins who live in Paulton, Midsomer Norton, and surrounds. “I’ve got a big, chaotic, high-energy family.

Hanging with them is like being in a Pogues’ song, and I’m incredibly fortunate to belong to the bones and blood I do – they’re all so interesting and funny. I love them.”

Turns out most of these “bones and blood” will be coming to the Forum to see him. Won’t that put him off?

“Not at all,” he laughs, and beams that trademark megawatt smile. “It’s like having someone in the room that you really, really want to entertain. I actually throw in little jokes only they would get, just to hear them laugh.” n

PHOTO BY CR AIG SUGDEN

BIG INTERVIEW

THE ARTS S N A P S H O T S O F B AT H ’ S C U LT U R A L L I F E

FAIR’S FAIR One of Bath’s most popular affordable art fairs, the Bath Art Fair (BAF), is about to return to the city.

The event, organised by Alce Harfield, is celebrating a decade of bringing an eclectic mix of striking, traditional, and often local art, to its visitors. Among the 1,000 artists who have exhibited over the years is Argentinian-born, Cornwall-based Dr Martin Raskovsky (seen here), who has been a part of BAF for all its ten-year history.

Happening from 27 February to 1 March at Bath Pavilion, BAF is also raising money for More Trees BANES through the raffle of an original painting

of Glastonbury Festival by Alce. She says, “This collaboration will help fund local tree planting and community tree nurseries, while giving artists and visitors a simple way to support nature on their doorstep. It’s a natural fit with Bath Art Fair’s strong commitment to reducing their environmental impact and running a more sustainable event.”

The fair is also supporting Safe Space Bath, a peer support group for young people, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity and community wellbeing.

For more: www.bathartfair.co.uk

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MARY LEE BENDOLPH, 2019 GEE’S BEND, AL ABAMA. PHOTO BY STEPHEN PITKIN/PITKIN STUDIO, COURTESY SOULS GROWN DEEP

WHAT’S ON 1 February – 7 March

American Museum & Gardens is celebrating the work and stories of an Alabama community of quilt makers

EXHIBITIONS Until 28 February

INVITATION: AN EXHIBITION A fascinating Windrush-era collection of photographs and stories celebrating the culture, lives, legacy and impact of Bath’s firstgeneration Caribbean community.

Bath Central Library at The Podium; Instagram: @invitation_exhibition2026

Until 11 April

ALICE KETTLE: BALANCING ACT Using thread to describe the tensions between stability and precarity, the textile artist, in this solo exhibition, articulates the contradictions between what is fixed and what is in flux. Bo Lee Gallery; www.boleegallery.com

Until 30 April

2020 PHOTOVISION Helping raise money for the RUH is its latest photography exhibition, demonstrating a creative range of visual impressions from sport and natural history to abstract and street photography. Art at the Heart of the RUH; www.artatruh.org

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Until 4 May

DON MCCULLIN: BROKEN BEAUTY Marking the legendary photographer’s 90th birthday and featuring his most recent and intimate body of work, close studies of Roman sculptures exhibited for the first time in the UK. The Holburne; www.holburne.org

Until 10 May

1960s, 70s and 80s. The ensembles are displayed on dynamically posed vintage Adel Rootstein mannequins, each one telling the story of the legendary designer’s signature prints and how she has translated them into her classic garments.

The legendary designer will also appear live in-conversation at The Forum in Bath on 18 March.

The Holburne; www.holburne.org

POSTER POWER! This colourful exhibition showcases an exceptional range of British posters from the 19th and 20th centuries, reflecting the spirit of the times from entertainment to travel and from political campaigns to recruiting for war. Many of the displays have links to the Bath area, including the Bath Festivals posters through the ages. Victoria Art Gallery; www.victoriagal.org.uk

7 February – 10 May

Until 10 May

7 February – 19 September

ZANDRA RHODES: A LIFE IN PRINT A takeover Holburne display showcasing the spectacular array of Dame Zandra Rhodes’ vibrant screen-printed garments from the

HANDLE WITH CARE A look through the eyes of one of Britain’s most acclaimed contemporary visual artists, Cornelia Parker, at the historic glass and found objects that inspire her work, which often centres around the themes of destruction, resurrection and reconfiguration.

The Gallery at No.1 Royal Crescent; www.no1royalcrescent.org.uk REIMAGININGS Shaped by her upbringing in London and her mixed Singaporean and British heritage, sculptural artist Hannah Lim works with materials including polymer

clay, wood, and metal to create playful sculptures that explore mythology, history, and personal reflections on identity. The Museum of East Asian Art; www.meaa.org.uk

14 February – 21 June

KITH & KIN: THE QUILTS OF GEE’S BEND A celebration of the extraordinary work of a group of African American women from a remote river island community in Alabama, which embodies a 200-year tradition of making quilts that hold both profound artistic and political significance. American Museum & Gardens; www.americanmuseum.org

THEATRE / MOVIES

20 – 22 February

DAVID COPPERFIELD: A LIFE The result of an ambitious two year-long community play project which will see more than 100 local residents (plus a volunteer team who each play integral roles) performing the classic Dickens tale, which has been produced by

FIREDANCE BY ROGER FORD

WHAT’S ON

clockwise from top left: Jodie

Comer in the intense, demanding and multi-award winning Prima Facie coming to Theatre Royal Bath 24 – 28 February; 2020 Photovision is the latest collection of work that’s helping raise money for the RUH; Beth Orton brings her jaunty poetic lyricism to Komedia on 15 February; Tale of the Loneliest Whale comes to The Egg 20 – 22 February; Bo Lee Gallery is currently exhibiting the work of contemporary textile and fibre artist Alice Kettle

Engage, written by Mike Akers and is devised and directed by awardwinning director Sally Cookson.

Staged in support of its new community studio, Venue 4 Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

26 – 28 February

BLUE STOCKINGS Bath University Student Theatre tell the story of the Girton girls at Cambridge in 1896 and being the first female cohort ever at a university. The Mission Theatre; www.missiontheatre.co.uk

27 – 28 February

1984 Award-winning Box Tale Soup, renowned for their ingenious sets, slick storytelling, and unique puppet mastery, present a new adaptation of Orwell’s dystopian classic.

Ustinov; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

24 – 28 February

PRIMA FACIE Jodie Comer’s (Killing Eve) Olivier, Evening Standard, Whatsonstage and Tony Award-winning performance in Suzie Miller’s gripping onewoman play visits the city as part of a limited national tour. Theatre Royal Bath; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

COMEDY

Every Friday and Saturday KROWD KEEPERS The Ale House on York Street has a secret room where some of the world’s finest magicians perform, hosted by resident conjurer Billy Kidd when she’s in town, and who promises us no rabbits or top hats. www.krowdkeepers.com

26 – 27 February

RUSSELL HOWARD: DON’T TELL THE ALGORITHM After breaking records with sold-out

shows across the globe, the brilliantly talented and wickedly funny Russell is bringing you back into the room: no phones, no distractions, just humans and jokes.

Turn to page 26 for our exclusive interview with our cover star about his local upbringing, and why performing in Bath is so special to him. The Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk

28 February

THE ETERNAL SHAME OF SUE PERKINS In her first live show for over a decade, the former BakeOff and current Just a Minute presenter, delivers a hilarious treatise on stigma, humiliation, misunderstanding, and lumpy brain happening live on TV. The Forum; www.bathforum.co.uk

6 March

AMY MASON: BEHOLD! When comic Amy Mason got hacked, she lost her number, bank account and social media access.

A lesson in why you shouldn’t be using your dead cat’s name as your password for literally everything.

The Rondo; www.rondotheatre.co.uk

MUSIC

15 February

BETH ORTON BRIT Award-winning, Mercurynominated singer-songwriter, Orton is renowned for her poetic lyricism and genre-blending style, with a career spanning over 30 years, eight acclaimed albums and collaborations worldwide.

Komedia; www.komediabath.co.uk

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WHAT’S ON 5 March

STEVE KNIGHTLEY From the English folk tradition to his own finely crafted compositions, Steve explores songs of history, landscape and human experience, and delivers material that resonates naturally in rooms shaped by centuries of song and prayer.

Chapel Arts Centre; www.chapelarts.org

OTHER

Until 16 February

REBALANCE BATH The three-week, city-wide extravaganza of wellbeing continues with a whole array of taster classes, talks and workshops. www.welcometobath.co.uk

Until 16 June

WE’RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT Based on the adored classic book

by Michael Rosen and illustrated

by Helen Oxenbury, a family go on a thrilling bear-seeking expedition.

The Egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

RENAISSANCE: JOURNEYS OF DISCOVERY The year-long fascinating programme of talks and events at Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution continues, exploring how the global manifestations of the Renaissance were intrinsically linked to the new age of scientific advancement. www.brlsi.org

20 – 22 February

12 March

CHILDREN 14 – 18 February

TALE OF THE LONELIEST WHALE A deep-sea adventure packed with beautiful puppets, hilarious sea creatures, original songs and audience interaction. Suitable 4+ The Egg; www.theatreroyal.org.uk

BATH LIFE AWARDS 2026 The brightest, bestest, boldest, and most magnificent Awards ceremony returns to The Forum, to celebrate our city’s stories of positivity, entrepreneurship, and success. www.bathlifeawards.co.uk

Felicity Kendal stars alongside Aaron Gill in Indian Ink

CULTURE CLUB with FELICITY KENDAL Bath favourite and Good Life legend Felicity Kendal returns in the Tom Stoppard classic Indian Ink that satirises the self-importance of both academia and the ruling class.

Coming to the Theatre Royal Bath 10-14 February, this is the first major revival since 1995 when Felicity created the role of the free-spirited poet Flora Crewe. In this new production

by Jonathan Kent, she plays Mrs Swan, the elderly, sharptongued sister of Flora.

The last great film I saw Napoleon. I love the work of Ridley Scott and am a huge fan of Joaquin Phoenix. It is also one of the great love stories of all time and I think that comes across incredibly well.

A film I could watch over and over again Casablanca. A true classic. It doesn’t date, with extraordinary performances from two wonderful actors.

A painting that means something to me A painting I have at home of an Indian elephant which was a gift and is very personal to me.

The book that changed my life The House at Pooh Corner

by AA Milne was read to me by my mother and I read it to my children. I read it now, it’s

filled with wisdom, wit and understanding and was the beginning of my love for books and reading.

The book I could happily re-read The world is full of amazing writers and books, and there isn’t enough time in life to go back over old stories.

Best TV show ever Curb Your Enthusiasm is one of the funniest shows on TV created by Larry David, a genius, politically on the edge, superbly written and directed. I would recommend it to anyone.

Last live music gig I went to Zakir Hussain, an amazing tabla player at the Brithvi Theatre in Bombay. It was a remembrance concert for my brother-in-law.

My desert island disc Anything by Bob Marley. I play him when I’m sad, I play him when I’m happy, he makes me feel alive, and he was such a positive force in the world.

The first song I remember hearing Indian film music. I grew up in India, and it is played in all the cafés; there were even singers in the street singing the latest hits. Whenever I hear it, I am transported back home.

My karaoke go-to Kara go! I’ve never been drawn to it – I would always much rather do something else.

For more: www.theatreroyal.org.uk

The exquisite sculptural work of Hannah Lim can be seen at the Museum of East Asian Art

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Winnie the Pooh sparked Felicity’s love of reading

NOVEL IDEAS NIC BOTTOMLEY

I Mr B’s three choices in this, the National Year of Reading

t’s official. We are now amidst the National Year of Reading. This national government-backed campaign is a timely reminder that reading adds value to everything and comes in every shape or form.

The campaign slogans revolve around the idea that you’re only ‘into’ something, if you ‘read into it’. What you read is a matter for the reader – it might mean untried classics, it might mean picking up a book for the first time in a long time, or it could mean reading interviews or lyrics. The campaign celebrates all reading and what it can bring – joy, information, knowledge, confidence, opportunities and so much more.

This may be preaching to the converted for me personally, but I’m thrilled it exists to amplify the messages that educators, librarians, booksellers and so many others live and breathe each day.

So what do I recommend you read in this National Year of Reading? Well, whatever you want! That’s the point! But that won’t make for much of a column, so I’ll imagine three of my favourite recurring shop floor enquiries...

1

“I want to give more time to reading and I want some escapism from the crazy world”

“The campaign celebrates all reading and what it can bring”

It’s probably time to reach for something funny, short and brilliantly written. Possibly something set in a completely invented world, even if you don’t think that’s your thing.

Perhaps a classic The Wee Free Men by Terry Pratchett (Penguin, £8.99) for example – because there’s nothing more escapist than the relentless comic chaos of wannabe witch Tiffany Aching teaming up with the Nac Mac Feegles – perpetually inebriated kilted tiny fighting men.

2

“I just can’t get my seven year old to spend time reading”

The first thing to say here is that the most important thing is to keep reading together

with that youngster even if they’ve reached independent reading age. Research has shown that doing that is a key factor in that child becoming a regular reader by themselves.

The second part of the answer though is to start with a funny graphic novel. More precisely, start with a genius like Neill Cameron. The brand new Donut Squad: Make a Mess! (David Fickling, £9.99) is part two of Cameron’s kaleidoscopic and anarchic tales of world domination battles between sweet and savoury baked goods.

Strictly, it’s not getting young readers away from a world full of conflict – but somehow donuts vs. bagels is a more palatable (in every sense) ruckus to observe than the real-world equivalents.

3

“All I’m thinking about is how much I miss Traitors. What do I read?!”

Something with intrigue, skulduggery and unreliable protagonists seems in order. Which leaves an awful lot of options. One would be Tom Hindle’s latest page-turning A Killer in Paradise (Cornerstone, £18.99). The plot is perfectly coded to the tradition of mysteries from Agatha Christie to Knives Out – old friends and rivals reconvene in the Costa Rican rainforest for the launch of a luxury hotel, but (and you may be ahead of me here), the discovery of a body changes everything.

Everyone present is, of course, a suspect and seems to have a motive, and in this case, there’s the added atmosphere and uncertainty of the remote and tropical setting.

There’s definitely a book for every reading situation. But as the National Year of Reading is setting out to prove, even if none of them seem quite right, you can always revel in newspapers, websites, blogs, audiobooks, poems, song lyrics or even magazines – like the excellent one you’re holding right now!

Nic Bottomley is the general manager of Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights, 14/15 John Street, Bath; www.mrbsemporium.com

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WORDS OF WIDCOMBE What the traders have to say about their hip little enclave Words by Sarah Moolla Pictures by Narrated Frames; www.narratedframes.com

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STREET FEATURE

ark Lord, architect and resident of Widcombe since 2017, describes it best when he says the tuckedaway enclave just behind Bath Spa Station is country living in the heart of the city. “Bath as a whole is the perfect blend of city and country living but Widcombe really personifies this. A five-minute walk from Widcombe High Street to the north and you are in the centre of Bath’s World Heritage City, or at Bath Spa station and on a train to London. A five-minute walk to the south and you are in the open fields of Lyncombe or Alexandra Park with far-reaching, breathtaking views across the city.

“There is a distinct community feel to Widcombe – having lived here for eight years now, we rarely leave the house for a coffee, school run or dog walk without bumping into at least four friends, neighbours or acquaintances. And you don’t have to go far for your needs, Widcombe Parade is a great asset with everything you could want from coffee shops and hairdressers to pubs and restaurants.”

Colette Hill, editor of the Widcombe Magazine and a committee member of the Widcombe Association, which happens to be the largest residents’ association in Bath, echoes Mark’s sentiments. “I’ve lived here for a decade and it still thrills me that I’m minutes away both from proper countryside up the hill and from the city centre down it. Prior Park is no distance and there’s the canal towpath as well. Widcombe is very villagey – everyone says hello as you pass, and the shops and pubs know their regulars. There’s everything from young trees to fine cheese to bird feeders at the garden centre, through to film shows and yoga classes at Widcombe Social Club. I feel very lucky.”

Many of the locals cited the theatre and entertainment venue of Widcombe Social Club (WSC) as one of the reasons they love this area. With its disco nights, movies, quizzes, classes, bands and comedy nights, it elevates Widcombe from a mere district to an epicentre of activity.

Nella Stokes, chair of WSC management committee, says, “Although this community venue for entertainment, social activity, celebration and purpose was historically established in 1899, it moved to this part of Widcombe in 1970. Our current home was rebuilt in 2016, meaning this year is our 10th anniversary here, which we intend to mark with a party in July.”

“Widcombe Parade is a great asset with everything you could need”

Widcombe on parade!

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STREET FEATURE B Hairdressing is a luxury vegan and ethical hair and beauty salon that opened in Widcombe in 2016; www.bhairdressing.co.uk Owner Harriet Barber: “Widcombe has always felt like a village within the city – independent, welcoming, and full of character. When I was looking for a home for B Hairdressing, I wanted somewhere that felt warm and connected, not anonymous. Widcombe has that rare balance of being lively yet personal, where people know each other and genuinely support local businesses. The sense of community is what makes it so special. From independent shops and cafés to people who stop to chat in the street, Widcombe feels warm, grounded, and full of everyday moments of connection. People here value quality, creativity, and supporting local, which makes it a wonderful place to work and spend time. Many of our clients live in or pass through Widcombe regularly, and there’s a real sense of loyalty and support that makes coming to work feel genuinely rewarding. Over time, I’ve seen a real shift towards championing independent businesses and protecting that village feel. More people are choosing to shop locally, and there’s a shared effort to help Widcombe thrive while staying true to its roots.

Surrounded by brilliant neighbours and a community-led spirit, Widcombe really is a village with a city soul.”

above: The B Hairdressing team are seeing more people shop and spend locally;

below: Natasha Nolan-Kemp, right, owner of Bath Spa Florists with colleague Zoe

“There’s a shared effort to help Widcombe thrive while staying true to its roots” Bath Spa Florists, which also now offers fruit and veg, alongside all aspects of floristry from everyday bunches to wedding flowers; www.bathspaflorists.co.uk Owner Natasha Nolan-Kemp: “My family’s business began in 1974, over 50 years ago. We moved to Widcombe 17 years ago when the old bus station was demolished for the SouthGate project. We were originally called Bus Station Florists, but 16 years ago, after relocating, we became Bath Spa Florists.

I’ve owned and run the shop for 16 years. I actually started here as a Saturday girl at 14, when it was still Bus Station Florists. I gained my floristry diploma at Lackham College and stayed with the business until I bought it, giving me over 35 years in the trade.

I grew up in Widcombe and went to Widcombe School, so this area means a lot to me. It’s a really family-friendly community, and I love watching children grow up – from nursery right through to senior school – as their families visit us over the years.”

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The family run Bikanos Indian Cuisine has been part of the Widcombe foodie scene since 2019; www.bikanos.co.uk Owner and chef Jesa Ram Bhamu: “I chose Widcombe because it has the perfect balance of beauty, community and opportunity. Bath is a gorgeous city with strong tourist footfall, and Widcombe sits just next to the main centre, making it a brilliant place to do business. The community here is genuinely helpful and close-knit – most people know each other by name – and there’s a real sense of security and support for local businesses. I love the friendly relationships with regulars and neighbours like the Ring O’ Bells, the Ram and Manhattan. Widcombe feels calm yet vibrant, and I hope it stays this way for years.”

Left to right - Bikanos restaurant manager Ashish Rawatleft, chef Naurang Godara, and chef and owner Jesa Ram Bhamu

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STREET FEATURE

Blaze, Bath’s biggest specialist retailer of gas and electric fires, wood-burning stoves, and multifuel stoves, has been part of Widcombe for 18 years; www.blazesbath.com Owner Tim Rawlings: “Widcombe is a very pleasant area, with good, friendly neighbours. A cheerful ‘good morning’ or a friendly wave is the norm from both other businesses and local residents. The Widcombe Association organises events throughout the year, including the Christmas market, and they provide Christmas trees for the shops so the street looks festive.

Widcombe is a great place to do business, just a short walk from the centre of town. In my 18 years here, the biggest change has been the road layout, which has reduced through traffic and enhanced the village feel that makes Widcombe such a nice place to work.”

above: Tim Rawlings of Blazes, which has been part of the row of shops for 18 years;

below: Luci Smolarek of Luca & Fig is looking forward to the White Hart reopening soon

Luca & Fig, the independent home, gift and card shop was founded in March 2020; Instagram @luca_fig_widcombe Owner and founder Luci Smolarek: “I was looking around the Bath area for premises to set up either a café/deli or a lifestyle shop when I heard this shop in Widcombe might be becoming available. After a few chats with Natalie, the previous tenant, I took on the lease in February 2020. Situated opposite the Widcombe Deli, a lifestyle shop it was to be.

What makes Widcombe wonderful is the cluster of small, independent businesses and its villagey feel, despite being so close to the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Although, as a small business owner, I’d of course love to see a bit more of that hustle and bustle find its way down here!

The best thing about working in Widcombe is getting to know the lovely local residents who support my business. I’ve also really enjoyed seeing changes along the parade: the Widcombe Deli/Ram collaboration has been a great success, I can’t wait for the White Hart to reopen, and I’m intrigued by the new rage painting experience Splasherist and the sparkly new jewellers’ Austens. It would be wonderful to see another independent retailer take over the former Larkhall Butchers. In a few words, the Widcombe vibe is: friendly, indie, local and villagey.”

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STREET FEATURE

The Ring O Bells has been a pub in Widcombe since the late 1950s and in October 2025, was taken over by the owners of The Ale House and the Sleight Magic Bar, both found in the city centre; www.ringobellsbath.com Publican and landlady Sarah Brookes: “We chose Widcombe because we love being part of a real community, and Widcombe truly is one. Our three young children attend Widcombe School and Widcombe Acorns, and with our other pub and magic bar in the centre nearby, this felt like the perfect place to add to what we do. The best part of working here is hearing our customers’ stories and being part of their celebrations, functions and events while serving great food and drink.

We’re fairly new, but we’ve already hosted a fantastic welcome party with live music and plan many more vibrant events to come.”

above: The new owners of the Ring O’Bells Sarah, left, and husband Paul centre, with Freddie and Rosie; below: Nathan the barber at Fine & Dandy

Fine & Dandy Barbershop came to Widcombe in 2014; www.fineanddandybarbers.com Owner and barber Robbie Emm: “Widcombe is a lovely area to work. There’s a really good community feel with positive vibes, and every other retailer being supportive and friendly over the years.”

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Natural Theatre Company, internationally renowned for its live performing arts acts, was founded in 1969 and set up home in Widcombe in 1997; www.naturaltheatre.co.uk

PHOTO BY NATUR AL THEATRE COMPANY

Executive and artistic director Andy Burden:

“I set up in Widcombe because it’s perfectly placed: close to the city centre, railway and bus station, which is ideal for both national and international work. Our building, bought with a Lottery grant in 1997, is exactly the right size and in the perfect position.

I’m Bath born and bred and used to live in Widcombe when my children were young. I love the walks up on the hill and the ever‑changing views. When I briefly lived in Widcombe Crescent, I took a photo of the sunset across the city every evening – it was different every time.

My band, The Andy Burden Band, has also played to a packed Ram, which is always a joy.

The best thing about working here is simple: I get to work in a lovely city, in a lovely area, in a lovely building, for a lovely company. Honestly, how perfect is that?”

above: Natural Theatre Company heading across Widcombe’s Ha’penny Bridge; below: Amanda Brown, Flamingo’s founder, owner, and designer

Flamingo, the Independent business designing, creating and making, cards, art and gifts selling both in-store and online, was founded on the parade in September 2015; www.flamingobath.co.uk Founder, owner, and designer Amanda Brown:

“I moved to Widcombe in 1998 and, after taking part in local art trails and Christmas fairs for a few years, I finally made the leap to open a shop when the opportunity arose.

Widcombe just has the right balance of everything: a real community feel, a peaceful atmosphere and people who genuinely value independent businesses.

The best thing about working here is that Widcombe residents actively support small shops and enjoy choosing thoughtful cards and unique gifts. I’ve seen many changes over the years, but the rerouting of heavy traffic from the Parade has been the most transformative, giving us back that village feel.

Recently I’ve been recovering from an injury, so I’m looking forward to properly celebrating the shop’s tenth anniversary. I also want to remember my neighbour and friend Natalie, who ran The Dress Agency next door. She was much loved in Widcombe and is very much missed.”

The Bath Deli Co moved from its home on Widcombe Parade into The Ram pub next door in 2023, which it has now taken over; www.jjbeanos.com Co-owner Nicky Ison: “The Bath Deli Co has grown over the years, but Widcombe will always be our home.

It’s where we started over ten years ago and where our roots remain firmly planted. From the beginning, we’ve focused on freshly prepared food, quality coffee and genuinely welcoming spaces where people feel at home and looked after.

Since upgrading from our first Widcombe site two years ago, we’ve expanded to four cafés and taken on The Ram, where we’re excited to introduce evening suppers and Sunday lunches. Widcombe has evolved while keeping its character, with community events, local initiatives and long-standing neighbourly relationships creating an atmosphere that’s vibrant yet reassuringly familiar – exactly the kind of environment we want our business to reflect.

Widcombe’s village feel, strong local identity and network of independents made it the natural place to begin. There’s a real sense of belonging here – the locals take pride in where they live and support the businesses around them. We would describe Widcombe as supportive, independent, welcoming and full of heart – values that continue to guide our business as it grows.”

above: The Bath Deli Co, which is co-owned by Nicky Ison, has now also taken over The Ram; below: Owen and Abbey are part of the Columbian Company team

“Widcombe feels safe, creative and truly community-focused” The Colombian Company specialises in freshly roasted coffee and has three shops, two in Bath and one in Bristol; www.thecolombiancompany.com Founder and director Jhampoll Gutierrez Gomez:

“We chose Widcombe as our third location because the spot has everything a great café needs: lots of local businesses who value good coffee, the sunny side of the street, and proximity to schools and the train station.

We knew there’d be plenty of people needing a morning coffee and pastry to start their day. Being a mainly independent area, Widcombe felt like the perfect place to add another quality-focused, local business.

“What makes Widcombe wonderful is its strong sense of community. Our regulars are so consistent that we know their names, their dogs, their kids and often their weekend plans. That daily coffee ritual feels as important to them as it is to us. The best part of working here is simple: coffee, cake, good friends – and all the dogs, of course. We’ve seen shops come and go, but we’re proud to have remained a constant, welcoming part of Widcombe life.”

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above: Bernadett Huszti and Laszlo Megyesi of The Splasherist;

below: Left to right Floresco’s Lisa Sargent, Sally Hunt and Harriet Barber

Floresco Media, the independent paid media agency was founded in March 2025; www.florescomedia.com Managing partner and co-founder Harriet Barter: “Widcombe is a

PHOTO BY FLORESCO

Splasherist, the splash and rage painting art studio was founded in 2023 and arrived in Widcombe in 2025; www.splasherist.com Co-founder Bernadett Huszti: “We were looking for a location that felt more connected, easily accessible and close to the city centre. After a few unsuccessful viewings, Laszlo walked up Widcombe Parade, spotted an empty shop and we immediately realised it was a superb space in an incredible location. From the very beginning, neighbouring businesses were friendly and welcoming, and we’ve been incredibly lucky with supportive landlords.

The best thing about working here is the strong sense of community. In less than a year, we’ve met our neighbours, supported one another and introduced them to our splash and rage painting concept. There’s real mutual respect and encouragement.

Since moving here in May 2025, the wider economic climate has shifted, but the local support for independent businesses has stayed strong. We’ve loved being an information hub for the Widcombe Art Trail, joining in community projects and supporting local charities. Widcombe feels safe, creative and truly community-focused.”

PHOTO BY PHIL THE PHOTOGR APHER

STREET FEATURE

lovely corner of Bath: close to the city centre yet in its own calm, quaint bubble.

It’s the perfect mix of great location and a communitycentred atmosphere, with fantastic local businesses at its heart. We love sharing office space with MediaClash, Anthem, and That Media Thing, grabbing a Colombian Coffee, lunch at the Halfpenny and an after-work drink at the Ram. Widcombe’s vibe in a few words: friendly, lively and welcoming.” n

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 47

SPONSORED CONTENT

MEET THE DENTAL EXPERTS Meet DR DAMIAN KORZUCH and DR ZEYAD SHAKER of The Dental Implant Clinic DR DAMIAN KORZUCH

How do you spend your time at work?

My time at work in The Dental Implant Clinic

is divided between dental implantology and various procedures involving oral surgery.

Apart from the more clinical activities I am also involved in the teaching aspect of dentistry.

Celebrating 30 years in the profession this year, I enjoy sharing my knowledge and experience with the younger generation.

I work collaboratively as part of a fantastic team to plan and undertake various complex treatment plans and procedures. That said, as much as we are always relentlessly focused and not afraid of a new challenge, we always have time for coffee and cake!

“I ENJOY SHARING MY KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE WITH THE YOUNGER GENERATION”

What we might we be surprised to learn about you?

You might be surprised that I held brown belt in Ishynryou karate and have run multiple marathons and ultra-marathons with the most challenging being in Svalbard and the Round the Rock Ultra.

How long have you worked at your current practice?

I joined The Dental Implant Clinic in 2019, so it will be 7 years in October.

What have been your career highlights so far?

I am a registered GDC Specialist in Oral Surgery. I have worked in multidisciplinary practices in EU, UK and the Channel Islands.

DR ZEYAD SHAKER

How long have you worked at your current practice?

It will be 4 years this summer. Time flies!

What have been your career highlights so far?

Gaining GDC registration as a Specialist Periodontist after a combined 9 years of undergraduate and postgraduate training and also getting promoted to Senior Clinical Lecturer at the University of Bristol.

How do you spend your time at work?

At The Dental Implant Clinic, my time at work is highly procedural, consult driven and relationship focused. To break it down, my day typically involves carrying out new patient consultations, where I pay particular attention to my patient’s concerns and take time to present a comprehensive account of my assessment so that they can make an informed decision. I dedicate a significant portion of my day in practice to performing a

“I PAY PARTICULAR ATTENTION TO MY PATIENT’S CONCERNS” 48 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

range of different clinical procedures, including the management of simple and complex gum diseases with the aim of tooth preservation. The meticulous placement of dental implants also forms a large proportion of my day for both aesthetic and functional gain. Lastly, ensuring good communication with the referring dental professional is a priority of mine to ensure that the patient journey is clear and efficient.

What’s your favourite sweet thing?

Paying tribute to my heritage, it has to be a popular sweet cake called “Basbousa” originating from Egypt that is made from cooked semolina, soaked in a fragrant sugar syrup and topped with coconut flakes. I of course limit this sweet treat to exceptional occasions and ensure that I consume it immediately after a main meal to limit the frequency of acid attacks that is vital in preventing tooth decay! n

Phone: 01225 448400 Website: www.thedentalimplantclinic.com Instagram: @thedentalimplantclinic

SPONSORED CONTENT

Meet DR LILIANA RUZZENE of Edgar Buildings Dental & Implant Clinic and and DR EDWARD M. BOUSIN of Bath Dental Excellence DR. EDWARD M. BOURSIN

BCHD, FDSRCPS, MSC (REST DENT), DIP IMP DENT (RCS ENG) Where did you train?

I qualified from Leeds University in 1990 and since have been committed to further postgraduate education, acquiring the additional qualifications: • Fellow of Dental Surgery Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons in Oral Facial Surgery • Master of Science degree in Restorative Dentistry • Masters Level Diploma in Implant Dentistry Royal College of Surgeons England • Advanced Certificate in Bone Grafting related to Implant Dentistry Royal College of Surgeons England.

How has your career developed since then?

I have attended numerous, industry lead, postgraduate courses receiving tuition from some of the world’s leading clinicians in the field of implant, cosmetic and restorative dentistry. I’ve been carrying out advanced restorative, implant and cosmetic dentistry for over 12 years and the excellent results I achieve has produced a loyal following from patients and referring dentists alike. I accept referrals for all aspects of restorative, implant and surgical dentistry from many dentists across the South West and beyond.

29 Brock St, Bath BA1 2LN; Phone: 01225 422695 Website: www.dentists-bath.co.uk

DR. LILIANA RUZZENE

BDS SUMMA CUM LAUDE, M. MFOS, FFD MFOS SPECIALIST ORAL SURGEON AND IMPLANTOLOGIST Why did you become a surgeon?

The idea of making a difference in people’s lives led me to become a surgeon.

How long have you been a surgeon and how many implants have you placed?

33 years and about 20 000 implants What’s the biggest misconception about your field?

The biggest misconception within my specialty of oral surgery is that we only remove teeth.

We do so much more, for example, we help prepare the mouth for dental implants and dentures; we grow bone in deficient areas to allow for implant placements; we do sinus lifts; we often help referring dentists with difficult cases; we handle pathology of the jaws; we help rebuild jaws in trauma patients,

and we perform some cosmetic procedures.

What is it you love about this job?

Everything! One of my biggest pleasures is interacting with a multitude of patients from various backgrounds. I have learned so much from them and every new patient presents a unique challenge, which motivates me daily.

I experience a Zen state of mind while performing surgery, pouring every inch of my focus into my craft.

What have been some of your proudest moments in your career?

Watching a patient take a first look in the mirror after reconstruction following gunshot injuries.

7 Edgar Buildings, George Street, Bath BA1 2EE Phone: 01225 466086 Website: www.smileofconfidence.com

“ONE OF MY BIGGEST PLEASURES IS INTERACTING WITH A MULTITUDE OF PATIENTS FROM VARIOUS BACKGROUNDS” www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 49

FOOD AND DRINK

FOOD INTAKE Bath Community Kitchen is celebrating extra funding to help with its

work to tackle loneliness, isolation and food poverty through community meals and cookery skills workshops.

As well as support from the National Lottery for a grant of £19,650, the charity has welcomed a £5,000 grant from the Groundworks UK Comic Relief Community Fund to support community meals and workshops for young people in Twerton; and £5,000 in donations and hands-on support from businesses, including Bath-based Sunhouse Creative and Digital Wonderlab, through the 1% For The Planet business network.

Founder Rob Lewis says, “Grants and donations like this mean we can support more people in our community who are facing challenges like isolation and loneliness, long-term unemployment and the cost of living crisis. Cooking and eating together is such a powerful way to build connections, confidence and a sense of belonging. With this support, we can create many more opportunities to bring people together.”

Since its inception in 2023, the Bath Community Kitchen has served more than 5,000 people at its community meals, welcomed over 3,000 people to workshops, and has rescued nearly four tonnes of surplus food that would otherwise have gone to waste.

For more: www.bathcommunitykitchen.org.uk left: A recent three course celebratory vegetarian meal at The George created by Bath Community Kitchen; inset: Rob Lewis, founder and director of Bath Community Kitchen

its first-ever teatime menu that celebrates homegrown flavours, foraged finds, and garden-led philosophy. This new Buttered & Baked tea offers a laid-back, rustic twist on the British classic, championing ingredients grown in the hotel’s kitchen garden and those sourced from local farmers, bakers and artisans.

“Teatime anywhere is such a heartening ritual, but we wanted to reinterpret it The Pig way – rooted in our gardens, shaped by the seasons, and served with that relaxed, no-fuss charm our guests love,” explains group head chef Andy Wright. “This is not a dainty, white-gloved affair; it’s generous, rustic and full of flavour. We’re excited to introduce something our guests have been asking for, but with our own homegrown twist.”

For more: www.thepighotel.com

THE PIG-NEAR BATH PHOTOS BY JOHN CAREY

BAKED GOODS The Pig-near Bath has launched

left: Buttered & Baked’s rustic offerings; inset: The Pig-near Bath’s teatime menu is popping

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 51

THE WELLY The new farm-influenced taproom and restaurant that’s scoring on all fronts

By Rachel Ifans

“It’s so good to see such a young business giving it some welly”

I

RESTAURANT

t’s rare you get a new opening that weaves itself into the fabric of head chef Peter Lewis and the butchery team on the farm. the city almost instantly. Somewhere that feels well-established “We have two breeds of heritage cows, one of which is believed to have and self-confident just a few weeks from launch day. But The Welly been brought to Britain by the Vikings, and bred for its meat and milk for seems to have done just that. When I say well-established, I mean in over a thousand years! We also work closely with local farmers to get hold the minds of locals and regulars, of weekly rugby-goers and weary of the best, most sustainable lamb, venison and pork. We want to get to shoppers, of local beerheads and of foodies looking for a reliably the point where we’re growing our own seasonal veg, but for now we’re good night out – not of tourists on a one-off trail of Bath’s insta working with local suppliers on that too.” sights. In other words, a place that’s designed for US, rather than He flags up the char sui pork as a bestseller, as well as the lamb THEM. Refreshing! croquettes and the ox cheek; just when I think our order is feeling The Welly is a taproom and small plates restaurant on the corner of a bit too meaty, he pulls out a blinder with a cauliflower escabeche Green Street and Broad Street; in a building that young Bathonians recommendation. “Our head chef has used his Cape Town roots may remember as Belushi’s and older ones as the to inspire this dish; the city has a big Indian Oliver, a Berni Inn that served up juicy rumps and population so he’s introduced some flavours to DINING DETAILS fat chips as far back as, ahem, the 80s. give it more character and punch. And we’ve The Welly, 9 Green Street, Bath BA1 2JY. email: This new and exciting incarnation of the got a South African beer on the board that pairs hello@thewellybath.com; www.thewellybath.com building comes from the owners of Somer perfectly with it.”

Owned by Somer Valley Brewing, who also has a Valley Farm, a family farm between Camerton, We are sold on all his recommendations and we butcher’s shop and deli in Peasedown St John Peasedown and Midsomer Norton, which was add in a monkfish dish, some beer dripping chips Established October 2025 bought by Chris and Mark in 2019 as a way to and a green salad for good measure, ordering a continue Chris’ grandfather’s local farming legacy. Head chef Peter Lewis, formerly of Henry’s in Bath carafe of Mouline de Gassa Pinot Noir from the and Bunch of Grapes in Bradford-on-Avon Having added a brewery three years ago, the Languedoc to accompany.

Opening hours Monday-Thursday: 11.30am-10pm team wanted a spot to showcase their local and Honestly? It is all delicious. This is not your Friday & Saturday: 11.30am-11pm Sunday 12–8pm standard pub fare – it is all innovative, layered with sustainable beer and food produce, and so the Food served Sharing-style small plates guided by idea for The Welly took shape. flavours, and well executed, both technically and in I pop in with my daughter to explore this latest the farm produce and butchery team terms of presentation.

Prices Between £7 and £15 Bath gem on a wet and wild Friday evening. You The lamb croquettes are perfect little parcels Covers 80 know the one; when Bath are playing Edinburgh of tender pulled lamb unencumbered by in the Champions Cup and the whole town rocks Drinks Core range of Somer Valley Brewing beers overpowering bechamel you sometimes get made with barley grown on the farm and water to a soundtrack of passionate stadium cheers, in a croquette, and cased in a thin and crispy from its own borehole. The 24 tap lines also host howling wind and the patter of raindrops. breadcrumb. Plentiful and delicate herbs add The bar area of the spacious pub is full of chat collaboration brews and guest beers freshness and the mild tahini yoghurt and herby Disability access Yes and laughter when we first arrive, and although chimichurri complement well.

Atmosphere A whole myriad emotions and vibes we would have no intention of spending our The char sui pork is the kind of dish that gives going on in one night, which makes it a wonderful evening on a freezing terrace watching muddy sharing plates a bad name because you really don’t spot for Bathonians of all shapes and sizes! men throw and kick a ball, we find ourselves want to share. Tender and flavoursome, not too enjoying the sea of blue stripy tops bobbing about fatty, cut through with kimchi and pineapple and a pre-match. It makes for a lively, upbeat and very friendly atmosphere, and lovely jus that is as plummy and rich as a hoisin sauce. that’s not to be sniffed at during a cold wet January.

The torched cauliflower escabeche lives up to its hype too, the makhani As The Rec calls its tribe to leave and go worship the Blue, Black, sauce providing a warm and distinctive flair, and we love our grilled & White, the pub gets significantly more restaurant-y than pubby and monkfish tail paired with chorizo jam. A genius surf-and-turf touch! it is time to choose our plates. The Welly’s food menu is chocka with “What on earth is making these chips so much tastier than normal tempting options, from scotch egg and ox cheek to the more adventurous chips?” asks my daughter, as we dip fat one after fat one into the fallow deer, steak tartare and celeriac arancini. Its beer board is equally accompanying tomato sauce. “Beef dripping,” I reply tentatively. She impressive; a great selection of small-batch beers which are brewed from pauses for thought, shrugs, and carries on dipping. barley grown on the farm. My daughter orders a Rolling Hills pale ale The Welly is just what Bath needs. A place for Bathonians (oh alright, from Somer Valley Brewing and I choose a Brook Helles lager while we and visitors too, if we must share!) to go that feels like a pub but serves peruse the menu and chat to the team. food you’d expect to find in a great restaurant. And with the joyous Our server is palpably excited about The Welly’s ethos, its local roots atmosphere and warm welcome you want from your local. So good to and its wonderful produce, telling us, “The menu is made up of sharingsee such a young business giving it some welly and fitting in like it’s always style small plates with a nose-to-tail, zero-waste ethos that’s guided by our been here.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 53

SHOPPING LIVE WELL, BUY BETTER

CLOUDED JUDGEMENT Pantone has announced that its 2026 Colour of the Year is Cloud Dancer (Pantone 11-4201).

Described as a ‘billowy, balanced white’, the shade is said to serve as a calming influence in a “frenetic society rediscovering the value of measured consideration and quiet reflection.”

Okaaaaaay. At first glance, it’s a touch ‘meh’, but actually the more we ponder, the more we buy into the thinking. “This ethereal, balanced white provides a tranquil backdrop, allowing

other colours to shine while symbolising peace and quiet introspection.”

In other words, it’s grounded, it’s background, and can support anything thrown at it. Much like our resolve for this coming year, so we’re in.

Air in Golden Light from Harlequin’s Renew Colour 4 collection costs £326 per roll. Stockists Davies Of Bath, 19a Monmouth Place, Bath; www.rabart.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 55

CERAMIC LOTUS TEA LIGHT HOLDER, £9.50 The curve of the individually cut petals means the safe containment of the tea light – perfect for a dinner party centrepiece.

From Biggie Best Bath, 3 Broad Street Bath; www.biggiebest.co.uk

SILVI CLOUDS WALLPAPER BY SANDERSON, £144 PER ROLL This striking cloud wallpaper design incorporates metallic highlights that represent the sun's glimmering rays and is an archival find, thought to date from the late 19th century.

From Heal's, 20 Milsom Street, Bath; www.heals.com

WHITE not QUITE

Pantone has chosen Cloud Dancer as its colour of 2026.

And it looks all-white to us SCALLOP COASTERS,

SET OF FOUR FOR £65 Made by Addison Ross, each coaster receives 20 coats of high-gloss lacquer and is handpolished between each coat for a supreme, longlasting shine.

From Anthropologie, 1 – 4 New Bond Street, Bath; www.anthropologie.com

MCMILLAN DINING CHAIR, WAS £219, NOW £205 A classic mid-century retro dining chair with an upholstered seat and back that would work well in any contemporary setting.

From TR Hayes, 15-18 London Street, Walcot, Bath; www.trhayes.co.uk 56 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

NEPHELE CEREAL BOWLS, SET OF FOUR FOR £79.17 Beautiful, practical, and handmade in Italy, the bowls feature a black-clay base with a handapplied white glaze and scalloped edges.

From OKA, 26-27 Milsom Street, Bath; www.oka.com

EDITOR’S CHOICE LARS SHEEPSKIN CUSHION, £69 The curly sheepskin is coloured with the eco-friendly dying process – Eco-Tan, which also means the skins become very soft and no two sheepskins are the same.

From Salcombe Trading, 16 Margarets Buildings, Bath; www.salcombetrading.co.uk

FLOS BELLHOP PORTABLE RECHARGEABLE LAMP, WAS £235, NOW £164.50 Designed by Barber Osgerby, the Flos Bellhop was first featured in the Design Museum in London and is the perfect formula of clear-cut design and true practicality.

Built-in LED technology replaces a classic lightbulb, making it suitable for indoor and outdoor lighting and portable and rechargeable.

From Holloways of Ludlow, 37 Milsom Street, Bath; www.hollowaysofludlow.com

CANDLE HOLDER WITH HANDLE, £13.50 This white-speckled candle holder by St. Eval is both charming and practical, evoking the rustic elegance of a bygone era – perfect for quiet evenings and intimate gatherings.

From Homefront Interiors, 10 Margaret’s Building, Bath; www.homefrontinteriors.co.uk

BRAMLEY STONEWARE BUTTER DISH, £29 Crafted from durable stoneware by skilled artisans in Portugal, the generously sized white Bramley butter dish is finished with a hand-applied reactive glaze that creates a unique speckled effect.

From Neptune, One Tram Yard, Walcot Street, Bath; www.neptune.com

IVORY SHEEPSKIN BEANBAG, £795 Unbelievably comfortable, this plush sheepskin beanbag is upholstered in the softest sheepskin and adjusts beneath you to hold you in cocooning relaxation.

From Graham and Green, 92 Walcot Street, Bath; www.grahamandgreen.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 57

SNOWED UNDER

How the snowdrop king inspired the total ‘white wash’ of a town Words by Nick Woodhouse Pictures by Jason Ingram

T

he self-taught Victorian horticulturalist James Allen from Shepton Mallet, who lived 1830 to 1906, was utterly passionate about the snowdrop. He wasn’t alone; the late 19th century saw the winter flower become highly fashionable amongst fellow Victorian gardeners and naturalists alike. The rarer varieties of the humble, unassuming flower quickly became not only highly prized specimens during the rise of ‘galanthophilia’, but also held great symbolism, representing hope, purity and renewal.

Thriving in dappled shade, this bulbous perennial often naturalises to form great white swathes within our deciduous woodlands; a familiar and annual promise that spring is perhaps finally on its way.

Grown in churchyards for Candlemas Day in February, they were often to be found in our abbeys too, used for their believed medical qualities in the cure of pains to the head.

The plant originates not however from our shores, but instead from mainland Europe and the Middle East, and is even mentioned in the literature of ancient Greece. It’s not certain how snowdrops made it here; some claim that the Romans brought them over, others claim the same of Norman monks. The first official recording of naturalised snowdrops here wasn’t in fact until the late 18th century.

In the century that followed, James Allen would become one of the country’s most recognised hybridisers, soon gaining the moniker of The Snowdrop King. From his home in Shepton Mallet, he would grow every variety and species known at the time and is believed to be the first person to ever deliberately cross and raise hybrids from seed.

Sadly, much of his collection was wiped out

by a fungal infection, closely followed by a blight of narcissus fly. However there are two varieties bred by Allen that remain to this day: Merlin, identified by its green inner flower segments, and Magnet with its unusually tall stalk. He died in 1906, and his funeral took place during a heavy snowstorm, with a local paper noting that several of the wreaths were ‘of the spring flowers in great variety to which he had devoted so much attention’.

Shepton Mallet still celebrates its Snowdrop King’s achievements to this day, thanks to The Shepton Mallet Snowdrop Project. This not-for-profit community interest project is run entirely by volunteers who organise the annual Snowdrop Festival, as well as planting snowdrop bulbs each autumn. To date, volunteers have planted over 500,000 snowdrop bulbs on roadsides, roundabouts and public spaces across the town to celebrate his legacy, the history and heritage of the town and the beauty of the snowdrop. Each year, thousands of bulbs are added, with the aim of blanketing the town white with snowdrops.

Next month, 20 – 21 February sees the festival return for its tenth year, and it promises to be the biggest yet. The festival boasts a wealth of talks across a number of venues in the town, including Kilver Court, a longstanding partner garden and sponsor of the festival. Here, the festival will welcome the project’s patron and renowned landscape designer and plantsman, Dan Pearson. He and partner and photographer-writer Huw Morgan will be in conversation with former gardens editor of House and Garden, Tania Compton, to talk about the story of the beautiful, intricate gardens they have created at Hillside, just outside Bath.

The venue will also play host to Kickstart Your Spring Garden, led by a panel of garden experts that includes James Cross,

“James Allen would become one of the country’s most recognised hybridisers”

58 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

head gardener at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells; Arthur Cole, head of programmes at The Newt and formerly head gardener at Colesbourne Park; Mike Burke, of Castle Gardens, Sherborne; and Clare Greenslade, head gardener at Hestercombe Gardens for 18 years.

Alongside an extensive line-up of specialist growers and nurseries, an artisan market, and workshops, the event also sees the return of its photography and poetry competitions, with works by all finalists being exhibited and judged by Jason Ingram, an awardwinning gardens photographer, and Wendy Pratt, a published poet. For the first time, the festival has also teamed up with Somerset’s top snowdrop gardens to create the Great Snowdrop Gardens Trail of Somerset, the brainchild of festival director, Amanda Hirst.

Gardens participating in the trail include Yeo Valley Organic Garden which has opened especially for the festival for the last few years and will do so again this year. This time however, it will be joined by gardens from all corners of the county – from Forde Abbey and Dunster in the south and Snowdrop Valley in the west, to Hestercombe and East Lambrook Gardens in central Somerset, and to the Bishop’s Palace, Wells, in the north.

The festival also has the support of Abigail Willis, author of Secret Gardens of Somerset, for the trail. “February is often such a bleak time of year so thank goodness for galanthus!” says Abigail. “How fabulous to be able to get out into some of Somerset’s most iconic gardens and celebrate the magical charm of snowdrops.”

We think James Allen would very much delight in the continued celebration of his much-adored, magical snowdrop.

For more: www.sheptonsnowdrops.org.uk Nick Woodhouse is the codirector of interior and garden design company Woodhouse and Law at 4 George’s Place, Bathwick Hill, Bath; www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk

opposite page: Victorian James Allen was passionate about the snowdrop;

this page, clockwise from top left: Landscaper Dan Pearson will be at the Snowdrop

Festival being held at Kilver Court; there are approximately 20 species of snowdrops; the author of Secret Gardens of Somerset, Abigail Willis, is a snowdrop fan; the obelisk The Snowdrop Project installed at the grave of James Allen in 2022; Shepton Mallet’s unique celebration of the snowdrop runs 20 – 21 February

PHOTO BY K ATHARINE DAVIES

GARDENS

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 59

JODYCORY.CO.UK 01225 460072 JODY@JODYCORY.CO.UK 9 ABBEY CHURCHYARD, BATH, BA1 1LY

NETWORK

THE CITY’S HOTTEST BUSINESS NEWS

THIS IS NOT JUST M&S, THIS IS A MASSIVE M&S

THE NEW FLAGSHIP BATH STORE OPENS WORTH A SHOT

Jon Carson on the whisky business

SEW CREATIVE

See+QUINS’s award-winning embroidered napkins

LEGAL EAGLES

Awdry Law Solicitors have landed on Wood Street

TOP MARKS

King Edward’s School named best independent secondary school

NETWORK “IT IS THE PERFECT ADDITION TO OUR STRONG LINE-UP”

ON YOUR MARKS!

A brand new M&S flagship store opens in the city

M

arks & Spencer opened the doors to its new city centre location on 4 February.

Spanning 83,000 sq ft across four floors, the retailer has moved into the SouthGate unit formerly occupied by Debenhams. The new-look store offers fresh, market-style food, including an in-store bakery, fresh produce from M&S’s select farms – around a hundred of which are based in Somerset – plus dedicated flower and wine shops.

In fashion, shoppers will find an expanded range of womenswear from Autograph, along with the latest collection from heritage brand Jaeger, delivering tailored, premium pieces. The dedicated beauty hall features the Apothecary and Fresh Elements skincare brands alongside Clinique, Estée Lauder, Hello Sunday, TYPEBEA, Sam McKnight and ESPA. The café is now a 140-seater M&S coffee shop, with views across the city and a range of brunch and lunch options, as well as barista-made hot drinks.

Natalie Jordan, store manager at Bath SouthGate, who has worked at M&S for over a decade, says: “Our customers deserve the very best of M&S and our new location will

62 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

deliver just that, with new products to explore and guaranteed trusted value and quality. The team and I have been busy getting ready for the move, and we’ve welcomed 40 new joiners, which has been fantastic.”

Laurence Budden, senior asset manager at British Land, the joint owner and asset manager of SouthGate, adds: “We are delighted to welcome Marks & Spencer to SouthGate Bath; it is the perfect addition to our strong line-up and further enhances the mix for our visitors. SouthGate’s prominent city centre location and strong transport links create a compelling offer, and with this, the scheme is now fully let.”

Local leaders also highlight the wider benefits the new M&S brings to Bath’s economy and high street.

Councillor Mark Elliott, cabinet member for Resources, says: “It is a huge boost for Bath that Marks & Spencer is investing in the city with a new store and we look forward to the opening. Alongside the reopening of Jolly’s this year, these investments are a strong vote of confidence in the city centre, which will support local jobs, increase footfall and help secure a resilient future for Bath.”

For more: www.marksandspencer.com | www.southgatebath.com

top: Around 100 of the food producers are based in Somerset; middle: The new store spans 83,000 sq ft; bottom: Around 40 more staff have joined the team

NETWORK NEWS

SEW GOOD!

Kate Southward of the Bathbased See+QUIN, has recently won the Weddings category in the Etsy Design Awards 2025, which spotlight creativity and craftsmanship from independent makers across the globe. Her winning piece, the Embroidered Portrait Napkin, transforms table settings into personalised works of art, with each napkin custom-stitched to create both an elegant place setting and a cherished keepsake.

Kate, who launched See+QUIN in 2011 to pursue her passion for embroidery following a career in the fashion industry, says, “I’m inspired by bold colour, playful design, and my vintage pink chainstitch machine to create heirloom-quality pieces that celebrate individuality and joy.”

For more: www.etsy.com

above: Kate’s Etsy award winning design; Kate Southward in her See+QUIN studio

Awdry’s managing partner Alexander David

Paul Walshe will be heading up the Bath Awdry office

Accolades and changes at KES

announced plans for a £3 million

HIGH GRADES investment to bring its pre-prep King Edward’s School, Bath, has been named The Sunday Times Independent Secondary School of the Year in the South West in the recently published Parent Power Schools Guide 2026.

Inspectors praised the school’s focus on wellbeing, including a robust pastoral programme, a phone-free policy in Years 7–11, and innovative careers guidance and co-curricular opportunities. Headmaster Martin Boden says, “At King Edward’s, we believe that happiness and wellbeing are the foundation of high achievement. This award reflects our commitment to combining academic ambition with a culture of care.”

The school has also just

64 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

and junior schools together on its North Road campus by September 2027, creating a single, purposebuilt primary school for children aged 3–11. The redevelopment will deliver specialist Early Years spaces, an innovative STEM hub, enhanced music facilities, and transformed outdoor learning areas, all designed to support a sector-leading, futurefocused education.

The move will also reduce crosscity travel for families and staff, uniting the entire KES community on one site for the first time since the 1960s and strengthening its reputation for academic excellence and pastoral care.

For more: www.kesbath.com

THE LEGAL EAGLES HAVE LANDED Awdry Law Solicitors, which has offices in Chippenham, Marlborough, Devizes, Royal Wootton Bassett and Swindon, has officially opened its new Bath office in Northumberland Buildings on Wood Street. It will provide its full range of legal services, including conveyancing, family law, wills and probate, commercial law, contentious probate, employment law, and dispute resolution.

Managing partner, Alexander David, says, “This marks an important chapter for the firm. Expanding into Bath is not just about increasing our presence, but about becoming part of a community we truly value.”

Partner Paul Walshe, who will be leading the Bath branch, adds, “We have created a truly wonderful space for both our clients and colleagues, with newly designed and fully refurbished offices that reflect our commitment to professionalism and exceptional service. From the thoughtful layout to the carefully curated finishes, every detail has been considered to ensure an inviting, modern and uplifting environment, whilst respecting the tradition of this beautiful historic building.”

For more: www.awdry.law

PHOTO BY NARR ATED FR AMES

PHOTO BY BET T Y BHANDARI PHOTOGR APHY

EntreConf returns Danny Sheppard, Rob Wilde and Vicky Walker celebrate winning a Bath Life Award!

BATH LIFE AWARDS

VARN

BUSINESS SERVICES WINNER SPONSORED BY

V

arn is a search engine optimisation agency based in Bradford on Avon, specialising in data and AI optimisation to help increase search visibility for its clients. Here, the communications director, Vicky Walker reveals why the team chose to enter the 2025 Awards.

“We’ve had an especially exciting year at Varn: a growing team, the expansion of our woodland office, successful VarnFest events for our local business community, as well as building innovative SEO and search expertise across our team and partnering with some brilliant clients. Entering the Bath Life Awards felt like the perfect way to celebrate those achievements and recognise the team’s hard work. It was also a chance to highlight how our specialist SEO, AI search capability and data expertise are helping businesses in the region grow and thrive.

“We’ve been shortlisted in the past in the Sustainability category for the development of our Varn Woodland Office, but this was our first time entering the Business Services category, sharing our whole Varn story. Winning the award was a fantastic moment for the whole team.

What makes us proud is the way the team has supported each other, innovated and continued to deliver excellence for our clients.

The night itself at the Forum was brilliant – there’s nothing quite like seeing so many great businesses all in such a positive mindset coming together to celebrate. It was a great networking opportunity, and we caught up with familiar faces and made a few new connections, too.

It was delightful to be on a table with our friends at Yellow Peach and Mytton Williams, and to meet the Floresco team. There’s a real sense of community at the Bath Life Awards, and it’s always inspiring to hear what others are working on.”

For more: www.varn.co.uk

THE BATH LIFE AWARDS 2026

This year’s prestigious ceremony is taking place on 12 March, with 23 categories, and will again be held at the impressive and historical venue of The Forum. Headline sponsor is Truespeed, the Bath-based, independent network provider, who say, “Truespeed has community at its core and being a huge part of the Bath Life Awards gives us the chance to celebrate those who are helping others and improving our local Bath community.”Look out for our upcoming issue covering all the night’s action, along with all the winners listed in full.

For more: www.bathlifeawards.co.uk

BUSINESS DIARY 12 MARCH Bath Life Awards, The Forum; www.bathlifeawards.co.uk 14 MAY Creative Bath Awards, Komedia; creativebathawards.org 17 – 18 JUNE EntreConf, Watershed; www.entreconf.com

IN TRAINING

Bath College will host its annual Apprenticeship & Careers Fair at the Apex Hotel on 26 February, aiming to tackle regional skills gaps in BA&NES and the wider South West. The event, held shortly after National Apprenticeship Week, will bring together up to 85 local and national employers from sectors including engineering, business, construction, education, hair and beauty, accounting and sport, all available to talk about exploring routes into work and training.

Ebner Heatly, employer engagement manager at Bath College, says, “This is an opportunity for people of all ages to explore the many career paths and apprenticeships available locally.”

For more: www.bathcollege.ac.uk

Bath College is holding an apprenticeship fair at The Apex on 28 February

NETWORK

Horlicks – so it appears maltbased drinks are in my blood.

Was there a long-term plan to be doing the work you’re doing now?

I always knew I wanted to build something of my own. While distilling and whisky weren’t the original plan, building a brand with real substance, heritage and longevity absolutely was.

CAREER PATH

JON CARSON

The commercial director and co-founder of WITCHMARK DISTILLERY on whisky, B-corps, and why Horlicks is in his blood

J

on Carson is the cofounder of Witchmark Whisky, a craft distillery based in Fonthill Bishop, near Salisbury in Wiltshire. His career has been shaped by hands-on commercial and brand roles, and at Witchmark, he leads strategy, partnerships, and brand and commercial growth. Co-founder Eddie Large oversees distillation and production, supported by a small, highly collaborative team covering sales, marketing, and visitor experience, plus an experienced advisory board from the global spirits industry. Here, we learn a little more about the spirit it takes to make a new business a success Tell us a little more about Witchmark Witchmark Distillery was founded to help shape the future of English whisky. It’s a young category, which gives us a rare opportunity to define standards rather than follow them. From the outset, our focus has been on provenance, sustainability and building something with genuine long-term value.

66 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

When was the company established?

We began building Witchmark around the end of 2020 and filled our first whisky casks in 2024.

Our first English single malt will be released from 2027.

What was the inspiration?

We believed English whisky was at a pivotal moment. Rather than rushing to market, we wanted to build a distillery that would stand the test of time – doing things properly from grain to glass, sustainably and inviting people to be part of that journey early.

What was your career story prior to founding the company?

My own background is in experiential marketing – I’ve spent many years helping brands tell compelling stories, including many alcohol brands such as Carlsberg, Rekorderlig Cider, Jim Beam and Bacardi. There is, however, something very exciting and rewarding about the ability to work on a brand that you have nurtured and built from the ground up. Coincidentally, my great-grandfather created

What were those early days of Witchmark like?

They were capital-intensive and demanding. Whisky requires patience, long-term planning, and belief before there’s any tangible reward. Balancing ambition with realism was one of the biggest early challenges.

How were these overcome?

By building a balanced business model. Gin and vodka allow us to trade, build brand awareness and refine our routes to market while our whisky matures.

What are the highs and lows of running the business?

Highs include filling our first whisky casks, achieving B Corp certification, winning international awards and becoming Official Spirits Supplier to Bath Rugby. The lows are largely about time – whisky teaches patience, whether you like it or not.

How does being based near Bath help your business?

Bath has a strong independent food and drink culture and an audience that values heritage and quality. It’s a natural fit for our brand.

Any moment you’ve been particularly proud of?

Becoming B Corp certified with a score of 124.4 – currently the highest of any distillery in England – was a huge milestone and validation of how we’ve chosen to build Witchmark. I’m equally proud of the Witchmark team who continue to support and believe in what we’re building.

“WHISKY TEACHES PATIENCE, WHETHER YOU LIKE IT OR NOT”

In what ways have you developed professionally and personally?

Witchmark has made me more patient and more strategic.

Building something intended to last decades changes how you think about decisions.

Has this been part of the key to Witchmark’s success?

Yes, we’ve been deliberate about not rushing, and that’s something we’d absolutely stand by. If anything, it’s reinforced how important patience, authenticity and doing things properly from the very beginning really are.

Are there negative perceptions about the work you do?

Sometimes spirits businesses are seen as purely indulgent.

We work hard to show that responsible production, sustainability and community engagement can sit at the heart of what we do.

Best tools for growth…

Strong local relationships, consistency and aligning brand and sales properly. Growth comes from trust built over time.

Any local collaborations you’d like to mention?

Our partnership with Bath Rugby is a standout. We’re proud to be the Official Spirits Supplier to Bath Rugby in a multi-year partnership, including exclusive spirits listings and a co-branded Bath Rugby X Witchmark Gin. It’s a collaboration rooted in shared values around heritage, excellence and community, and one that feels genuinely local and authentic rather than transactional.

For more: www.witchmark.co.uk

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PROPERTY P L A C E S T O L I V E , W O R K A N D P L AY

Residential

RIGHT OF PASSAGE The city centre townhouse for sale Looking for a central Bath pied-à-terre or investment property? This newly built townhouse could be just the ticket. The contemporary, highspecification three-bedroom property on St James’ Passage is arranged over four floors and offers flexible, low-maintenance living.

The energy-efficient home, marketed through Jack Flower Property for £850,000, has been designed to maximise both space and natural light. The ground floor features a generous open-plan living and kitchen area, ideal for modern living and entertaining. The kitchen comes with integrated Siemens appliances, creating a sleek and practical workspace for everyday cooking.

A standout highlight is the private top-floor roof terrace, which offers panoramic views across the city’s distinctive skyline.

For more: www.jackflower.exp.uk.com

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PROPERTY NEWS

Alumno Group’s new purpose-built student accommodation

New builds

STUDY GROUP

Hollis Wharf showcases the work of local artists

PHOTO BY CASPER FARRELL

Student accommodation specialists Alumno has completed Hollis Wharf, a mixed-use student residence on the Lower Bristol Road, alongside the banks of the River Avon. The five-storey scheme, designed by AWW and built by RED Construction Group’s South West team, delivers 120 studios and cluster bedrooms, together with study, play and social spaces, an expansive roof terrace with panoramic city views, and a ground-floor commercial unit.

Artworks by Bath-based creatives, including a ceramic sculpture by artist Patricia Volk, and a wall-based River Avon map, feature in the scheme to celebrate the city’s artistic talent, textile heritage, and 18th-century industrial growth.

Alumno managing director David Campbell says, “This project has been a true collaboration between our team, architects, contractors and local stakeholders. We are delighted to see Hollis Wharf brought to life and look forward to welcoming students into this exceptional new residence.”

For more: www.alumnogroup.com

Heritage

RESTORING HOPE

Beckford’s Tower on Lansdown Hill has been named one of only eight UK winners at the Georgian Group Architectural Awards, sponsored

by Savills, where it won the Restoration of a Georgian Building in a Landscape prize.

Designed by architects Clive England and Sophia Robson, the Our Tower project has transformed the Grade I-listed building from a leaking, inaccessible, at-risk museum into a revitalised heritage attraction. The scheme restored the tower, opened up its landscape, uncovered a hidden grotto and subterranean vault, and introduced decolonialised interpretation alongside sustainable technologies including solar panels and air source heat pumps, securing the future of this 1826–27 landmark.

For more: www.beckfordstower.org.uk

Beckford Tower won at the Georgian Group Architectural Awards

Future of energy

POWER TALKS

Bath and West Community Energy (BWCE) recently held an open event and panel discussion at the Museum of Bath at Work for people to learn more about the future of energy.

Speakers included Jen Gale on how to live more sustainably, Sonya Bedford on community energy, and Pete Capener on BWCE’s five-year local energy plan.

BWCE is a not-for-profit community energy business, tackling climate change through clean energy generation and energy efficiency measures in homes. Surplus income is reinvested in local community projects, reducing carbon emissions and addressing fuel poverty.

For more: www.bwce.coop

70 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Bath and West Community Energy held an event at the Museum of Bath at Work

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AFTER

INDUSTRIAL STRENGTH Explore a sleek Tramshed apartment offering views of the city and Bath’s history within its very structure

By Elsie Chadwick

S

tep through the discreet entrance of the Tramshed and into the communal hall, where the building’s industrial past is immediately apparent. From the outside, the former warehouse announces itself with confidence: warm red brick rising above crisp white-painted masonry, tall arched windows marching along the elevation, and expansive, steel-framed glazing that floods the interiors with light. Planters soften the edges of the courtyard frontage, and the adjoining Neptune store’s café tables hint at the sociable, urban atmosphere that defines this part of Bath. This is no ordinary city apartment block, but a carefully reimagined piece of the city’s working heritage.

Inside, original brickwork, generous ceiling heights and large, warehouse-style windows reinforce that first impression. A lift and wide stairwell lead down to the secure underground parking, a rare advantage in such a central position, before rising to the upper floors where the lateral apartments are arranged along the river.

As you step into a broad entrance hall, a small but vital detail to apartment living is just how clever the storage design here is. Everything feels neat, keeping the approach clear and uncluttered, and drawing the eye ahead towards light and water. Turn the corner and the main living space opens up in front of you: a striking, open-plan room running along the river, with full-height windows and doors echoing the bold, industrial glazing seen on the exterior and framing long views over the Avon towards Pulteney Bridge.

The open-plan arrangement has been designed to create distinct but connected zones for cooking, dining and relaxing. Exposed wood floors run throughout, lending warmth and continuity to the space and balancing the building’s robust architectural bones.

The kitchen occupies one side of the room, fitted with sleek cabinetry and integrated appliances, while leaving plenty of room for a substantial dining table.

This is very much a room for convivial evenings, with guests able to move easily between the kitchen and seating areas without feeling confined.

The sitting area takes full advantage of the riverside position. Doors open onto the first of two private balconies, where there is space for chairs and planting, mirroring the landscaped feel of the shared outdoor areas below. From here, the scene is constantly

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PROPERTY

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PROPERTY

changing: rowers and boats gliding along the water, birds wheeling overhead, and the architectural drama of the city creating striking focal points. The second balcony, accessed further along the living space, offers an alternative vantage point and a little more privacy, making it an appealing spot for morning coffee or a quiet evening drink.

Returning inside and moving back through the hall, the bedroom accommodation is arranged towards the rear of the apartment, ensuring a calm and restful feel away from the main living area. The principal bedroom suite is approached via a generous dressing area, created by incorporating what was once a third bedroom. This has transformed the space into a grown-up suite with excellent wardrobe provision, ideal for those who appreciate order and proper storage. The bedroom itself is of notable size, with another large window drawing in light and, again, capturing glimpses towards the river. An en suite bath/ shower room adjoins, finished to a high standard with contemporary fittings and tiling.

The second bedroom lies across the hall. Currently used as a home office, it lends itself well to a variety

74 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

HOUSE NUMBERS Bedrooms

2

Bathrooms

2

Riverside view Square feet

1 1,496

For more Savills, 21 Milsom Street, Bath; www.savills.com

of uses, whether as a guest bedroom, study or hobby room. Close by is the second bath/shower room, also smartly presented, which serves both as guest bathroom and as a practical facility for everyday use.

Throughout the apartment, the specification is consistent and considered, combining modern comforts with the inherent character of the original structure.

Beyond the front door of the apartment, the advantages of life at the Tramshed continue. Secure underground parking and a separate storage unit add further practicality, particularly valuable in Bath.

Outside, the setting feels both urban and unexpectedly calm: brick-paved approaches, mature planting, and the reassuring solidity of the warehouse architecture enclosing the space. And yet it sits on the doorstep of the lively, eclectic and very special Walcot Street.

A loaf from Landrace bakery, a browse around the indie shops, lunch at Walcot House, peruse a gallery or two, dinner at Sarthi’s, followed by a band at The Bell. This beautiful apartment sits at the beating heart of everything that is perfect about Bath and makes a compelling argument for making it your new home!

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HISTORY IN THE MAKING How technology, sustainability and future thinking affect period property restoration

By Sarah Moolla

PHOTO BY PETE HELME PHOTOGR APHY; W W W.PETEHELME.CO.UK

PROPERTY

R

opposite: For major projects the advice of a specialist architect will be required says John Law of Woodhouse & Law; above: Wraxall Builders regularly work with a range of high-

performance, low-impact materials ; below: Good craftsmanship can be preserved with the right technology says Tom Weaver of Tile & Floor

estoring a period property has always required a careful balance between preservation and progress. Today, that balance is being reshaped by rapidly evolving technology and an urgent need for more sustainable ways of living. From thermal imaging and digital surveying to low-impact materials and smart environmental systems, modern tools are offering new ways to understand, protect and future-proof historic buildings – without erasing their character.

At the same time, climate change, rising energy costs and shifting planning policies are forcing property experts to think differently about how period homes are restored and maintained. Interiors and exteriors alike must now respond not only to the past, but to the demands of the decades ahead.

Here, leading property, interiors, and conservation specialists discuss the key issues around technology and sustainability and how they are influencing the restoration of period buildings.

MODERN RESTORATION

How is modern technology changing the way you assess and restore period properties without compromising their historical integrity? It’s a question increasingly at the heart of conservation work, as architects and specialist contractors seek deeper insight into historic buildings while minimising intervention and preserving authenticity.

“Evolution of modern technology has been instrumental in the way we analyse and understand listed buildings,” says Mark Lord,

founding director of Lord Architecture. “For us, one of the critical tools of this evolution has been 3D scanning, lidar and photogrammetry.

These assets are utilised at the outset of every project to provide millimetre-accurate data on the existing building(s), topographical mapping, 3D models, and aerial photography. This information forms the basis of our work. It is then manipulated with 3D modelling technology and rendering platforms to create photo-real computergenerated imagery of the proposals for both client approval and to support planning and listed building applications.”

For specialists working with historic interiors, advances in heating and appliance technology are proving just as transformative, as Russell Atkins, director of Mendip Fireplaces Bath, explains: “Traditional open fires, whilst visually appealing, are often inefficient and can result in significant heat loss. Today’s restoration approach focuses on retaining the original character of a fireplace while upgrading its function. Advances in heating technology now allow period properties to benefit from high-efficiency solutions without compromising aesthetics. Carefully integrated wood-burning stoves, gas fires, electric fires, and bioethanol options can dramatically improve heat output and controllability while respecting the building’s original design.”

“Critical tools of this evolution has been 3D scanning, lidar and photogrammetry” www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 79

PROPERTY

above: Mitchell & Dickinson take a holistic approach when considering energy-efficiency measures;

below: The original features of Bath’s Cavendish Crescent have structures that are relevant today notes Rich Tyers

SUSTAINABLE SUBSTITUTES

What sustainable materials or techniques are now viable replacements for traditional ones? Designers, conservation architects and builders are increasingly turning to products that match or complement the original fabric while significantly improving performance.

“There is now a new generation of sustainable materials that sit beautifully alongside historic ones – lime plasters, clay paints, wood-fibre insulation and natural finishes all improve environmental performance while respecting the building’s fabric,” says interior designer Clair Strong. “Having said that, there are areas where compromise simply isn’t appropriate: original stonework, timber windows and traditional joinery are integral to a building’s identity and should always be carefully restored rather than replaced.”

Conservation-led planning policy and the climate agenda are also helping to drive viable, lower-carbon alternatives. Mansi Chavan, conservation architect with AGM Planning Consultants, explains further, “Sustainably sourced timber is becoming an increasingly viable alternative to traditional materials, supported by government policy that encourages the use of homegrown timber, which aims to reduce carbon footprint and strengthen local supply chains. Its use can positively support planning applications.

When it comes to building in Bath, very often Bath stone is needed to fit in with the surrounding environment. In some cases, though, reconstituted stone can be used for the bulk of the building, with Bath stone cladding on the outside.”

Contractors on the ground are seeing a marked shift in what clients and architects are asking for. “We’ve seen a clear shift in client/ architect priorities, with far greater emphasis on energy efficiency,

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long-term performance, and reducing the carbon footprint of both the construction process and the finished building,” says Louis Channer, managing director with the construction company Wraxall Builders. “We’ve successfully delivered multiple SIPS (Structural Insulated Panel System) projects, which are quick to assemble, extremely airtight, and exceptionally efficient in use. They are straightforward to construct but significantly cheaper and more comfortable to run over their lifetime.

“We regularly specify and work with a range of high-performance, low-impact materials, including Steico wood fibre insulation, Aerogel insulation, and Repair Care timber repair systems. “One of the most transformative developments for Bath’s heritage buildings has been ultra-slim vacuum glazing, such as Fineo. This technology is genuinely revolutionising what’s possible with traditional sash windows. The vacuum glass units are thin enough to be installed into existing frames, meaning the windows still look and function like traditional sash windows. The results are remarkable: dramatically reduced heat loss, significantly improved acoustic performance, and a noticeable increase in comfort.”

Architects, meanwhile, are weighing up subtle, breathable solutions that work with traditional structures as Jonathan Hetreed, director

“There is now a new generation of sustainable materials”

PROPERTY of Hetreed Ross Architects, explains, “Especially for internal wall insulation often the ‘only option’ for insulating stone-faced buildings, we increasingly use wood fibre, cork or cork based insulating lime plaster: less efficient insulation than petrochemical foam slabs but with the advantage of permeability and reduced condensation risk and more sustainable. Where plaster thickness has to be retained, for cornices, for example, super thin aerogel laminates can achieve a major insulation upgrade though at much higher cost.”

CRAFTSMANSHIP AND TECHNOLOGY

Can modern construction methods help preserve craftsmanship rather than replace it? For many specialists working on heritage projects, technology is becoming a powerful ally of traditional skills rather than a threat to them. “Certainly, modern machinery, CNC machining, for example, can enable craftsmen to achieve intricate detail in less time and for less cost, but the hand finishing is still required, so prohibitively expensive work is made more affordable, thus keeping crafts alive that might otherwise vanish,” says Jonathan Hetreed.

In the interiors world, digital tools are giving makers and installers a level of precision that supports, rather than dilutes, the human touch.

“Digital surveying and precision manufacturing give craftspeople a level of accuracy that was previously impossible,” says Clair Strong.

“This allows them to focus on the quality of the detail rather than the limitations of the process, resulting in work that is both beautifully crafted and technically refined.” Tom Weaver, director with Tile & Floor, agrees: “Craftsmanship is preserved through informed specification rather than being replaced by technology. Modern fixing systems and improved installation products support our craftsmanship by allowing accurate, controlled installation. The skill lies in knowing which systems are suitable for a historic environment and which are not.”

Major heritage projects are also showing how contemporary engineering techniques can sit comfortably alongside centuries-old

above: Synergy helped install low-carbon underfloor heating at Bath Abbey;

below: There have been significant advances in heating technology says Russell

Atkins of Mendip Fireplaces Bath; opposite: Installing insulation in a listed building will go a long way to improving its energy performance advises John Law

fabric. A shining example of modern construction methods preserving heritage is the Bath Abbey Footprint Project, managed by Synergy LLP. Tommy Thompson, partner with Synergy, explains further: “This ambitious scheme restored the Abbey’s crumbling floor and installed low-carbon underfloor heating powered by Bath’s natural hot springs – an innovative renewable solution tailored to the city’s resources.

Winner of the RIBA National Award 2024, the project conserved 891 ledger stones, stabilised the floor, and significantly improved energy performance. Synergy’s role in cost consultancy and project management demonstrates how heritage preservation and sustainability can work hand in hand.”

And for architects like Mark Lord, the meeting of old and new is becoming the defining strength of sensitive restoration. “Whilst the consensus generally is that modern construction is the antithesis of craftsmanship, we often find clients and main contractors celebrating the skills of master craftsmen on our projects, from joiners to masons, painters to bespoke furniture makers. In this industry, our clients and we are in a unique position to invest in both the advances of modern construction and the skills of craftsmanship, driving forward the new whilst investing in and celebrating the old, knowing where to utilise each is the key to balancing a successful build.”

EFFICIENCY VS BREATHABILITY

How do you balance improving energy efficiency with the need for breathability in historic buildings? It’s one of the most challenging questions facing anyone working with older fabric, where solid walls, natural materials and delicate detailing demand a carefully considered approach. John Law, interiors creative director with the interior and garden design Woodhouse and Law, says, “Installing insulation in the walls, floor, and roof of a listed building can go a long way to improving its energy performance. We would, however, always recommend seeking the advice of a specialist architect to implement the

82 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

“Integrate technology sensitively, and think holistically”

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PROPERTY

Carefully placed, quiet, air-source heat pumps can often be suitable in gardens says Jonathan Hetreed of Hetreed Ross Architects

right design and specification here – using the wrong materials can lead to condensation, mould growth and rot.

The choice of material is very much dependent on the original construction of the building itself. Whilst timber-framed walls might be insulated using wood board batts, solid walls would benefit from internal insulation of sheep’s wool. As well as having high-performance thermal and acoustic qualities, sheep’s wool also allows buildings to breathe, thanks to its ability to absorb, hold, and release up to a third of its own weight in moisture without losing its insulation properties.

“Modern technology has helped enhance this natural material to further improve its credentials. Several products on the market are treated with biocide-free Ionic Protect, which alters the fibre’s structure to prevent it from serving as a food source for pests such as moths and other insects. Modern manufacturing methods also allow the wool to be layered in a concertina fashion, increasing its density and structural integrity.”

For low-impact architectural practices, the solution lies in understanding the difference between air movement and moisture movement and specifying accordingly. “Breathability and energy efficiency do not need to be pitted against each other,” says Rich Tyers, director of Rich Tyers Studios, the architectural practice dedicated to low-impact, aspirational and healthy buildings. “We just need to use materials that are breathable, insulative and airtight. Breathability is about moisture: allowing water to pass through. Airtightness is about air; keeping it within the building and then installing an effective ventilation system to manage it. Lime plaster is a classic example of a breathable and airtight material. When mixed with cork, it also provides insulation.

So we can achieve all of those things so long as the material choice is right.”

“This technology is genuinely revolutionising what’s possible”

Insulation specialists working exclusively with period homes are taking a whole-building view, looking beyond simple U-values towards comfort, durability and summer performance. Dan Raymond-Barker, director of surveying and carbon management with Mitchell & Dickinson, the insulation retrofit and restoration company, explains more: “We take a holistic approach when considering energy-efficiency measures and ensure positive intervention doesn’t have a negative impact elsewhere. This is particularly important around ventilation and moisture. For instance, while we make buildings more airtight with draught proofing, we ensure background ventilation remains, that windows and doors operate smoothly, devise a ventilation strategy with the occupants and specify additional mechanical ventilation if necessary.

Single-glazed windows are inefficient and require thermal upgrades, but existing windows are often significant and should not be replaced. We install highly efficient integrated secondary glazing with minimal impact on heritage, aesthetics and operation.

“When insulating lofts and sloping ceilings, we use sheep’s wool and wood fibre. These allow moisture to pass through - and even hold water and release it naturally over time – to buffer high-humidity conditions.

We aim to make buildings warmer in winter and cooler in summer, so they’re more comfortable to live in. Unlike many synthetic insulation materials, natural fibres don’t contribute to overheating in hot weather because they heat up much more slowly and release heat at night when it’s cooler.”

DISCREETLY GREEN

Which green technologies integrate best into period properties without visually or structurally disrupting them? From discreet solar to carefully placed heat pumps and subtle ventilation, the key is usually to start with the fabric and then work out which systems can be quietly added. Jonathan Hetreed says, “We advise clients to improve thermal performance as much as possible, with long life insulation, before resorting to expensive shorter life technologies, then we assess each on its merits: for discreet roof pitches, PV panels work well but for typical historic Bath buildings, only the inner roof pitches may be discreet

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PROPERTY CLIMATE-PROOF EXTERIORS

above: While Bath stone is often needed to fit in with surrounding, Mansi Chavan of AGM advises that, in some cases, Bath stone cladding can be used just on the outside; inset: Dan Raymond-Barker of Mitchell & Dickinson recommends installing highly efficient integrated secondary glazing on period properties

enough, so solar thermal may be more viable at twice the output per square metre of PVs. Carefully placed, quiet, air-source heat pumps can be suitable in gardens. Ventilation terminals are seldom acceptable protruding through walls; inner roof pitches are usually preferred, or through redundant chimney flues.”

On-the-ground retrofit experts stress that each building and each streetscape needs its own bespoke solution. “It is all considered on a case-by-case basis,” says Dan Raymond-Barker. “Solar PV panels may be suitable if the roof structure can support them and if they’re hidden from view (listed buildings would generally not gain consent for solar PV on prominent or front elevations). Other buildings or ground-mounted panels might be more suitable, and battery storage can be a low-impact alternative. Air source heat pumps should be considered (where they can be positioned unobtrusively), especially in the context of full renovation or when the heating needs to be upgraded – but only if an adequate level of energy efficiency has been achieved.”

Meanwhile, conservation architects are finding that, with the right siting and justification, planning consent for renewables is becoming more achievable.

Mansi Chavan says, “Green technologies can be successfully incorporated into period properties where their visual and physical impact is carefully managed through the planning process. Solar panels are increasingly supported by local authorities, and are typically positioned on less prominent roof slopes to minimise harm to heritage significance. Air-source heat pumps are also generally acceptable, providing noise impacts are addressed and units are positioned discreetly, away from principal elevations. When appropriately sited and justified, these technologies can sail through the planning process for many projects, aligning with both heritage policies and wider sustainability objectives.”

“We need to look at traditional construction methods” 86 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

What role do our experts think future climate conditions, such as increased rainfall, heat, and humidity, play in historical restoration processes? As the climate changes, traditional detailing and robust, breathable materials are coming back into focus. Tom Weaver explains further: “Increased moisture and humidity mean modern flooring systems must tolerate movement and moisture rather than resist them. External thresholds, drainage detailing and internal floor transitions are becoming increasingly important to long-term performance. Breathable adhesives, lime-compatible bedding systems and responsibly sourced natural stone offer sustainable solutions without compromising historic integrity. However, there can be no compromise on substrate suitability. Impermeable screeds, excessive movement or unmanaged moisture will undermine even the best materials, so vitally important components commensurate with the requirement are used. Ultimately, sustainability, in our view, starts with longevity.”

Architects focused on low-impact design are also looking to the past for clues on how best to shade, cool, and protect buildings in a warming climate. “There is plenty of evidence to show that external shutters and shades have been a common part of our built environment for centuries,” says Rich Tyers. “As an example, Cavendish Crescent in Bath, built between 1815 and 1830, nearly all of the buildings had external shutters. Some also had first floor awnings to protect very large sections of south facing glass from the sun. External shading was once commonplace in the UK and, like in many parts of southern Europe, it should be again. Also, considering rainfall, we need to look at traditional construction methods. If you look at old buildings, you’ll see they have steep roofs, deep overhangs, and gutters. All of these features exist to manage heavy amounts of rainfall and keep the building dry. We should be looking to these techniques again for future-proofing our buildings for the long term.”

FUTURE BEST PRACTICE

For many in the industry, defining ‘best practice’ in restoring and future-proofing historic buildings lies in combining time-honoured skills with scientific understanding and subtle technology. “Looking ahead, best practice in restoring and future-proofing historic buildings will be defined by a fabric-first, evidence-led approach that balances conservation with performance and climate resilience,” says Louis Channer. “It’s about understanding buildings before intervening and looking at them with a whole-building strategy. Ultimately, the most successful projects will be those that combine traditional craftsmanship with modern knowledge and discreet technology, allowing historic buildings to remain authentic, comfortable, and fit for the future without compromising their character.”

And to consider our future, we do need to acknowledge our past, as Tommy Thompson explains, “Looking back helps us look forward.

Early adoption of double glazing and cavity insulation showed that small, well-planned upgrades can dramatically improve comfort without harm. In contrast, the 1980s-90s saw poorly installed central heating and PVC windows compromise aesthetics and cause condensation.

The lesson? Integrate technology sensitively and think holistically – prioritising low-carbon materials and renewable energy systems, not just insulation.” n For more: www.agm-ltd.co.uk | www.clairstrong.co.uk | www.hetreedross.com | www.lordarchitecture.co.uk | www.mendipfireplacesbath.co.uk | www.mitchellanddickinson.co.uk | www.rtstudios.co.uk | www.synergyllp.co.uk | www.tileandfloor.co.uk | www.woodhouseandlaw.co.uk | www.wraxallbuilders.com

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business specialising in painting and decorating, plastering, tiling, sash window restoration and other property restoration. Nexus have built a reputation for the highest standards of workmanship with experience across a range of projects from listed buildings through to new builds, with a complete commitment to customer service and health and safety Tel: 01225 300414; www.nexusofbath.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 89

BATH LIVES

“I still draw inspiration from Star Trek” My parents divorced when I was 12 years old. A few years

later my father left for Russia and my mother left for France.

I followed my mother at the age of 14. My mother is now a French citizen, and my father, after some adventures, became British and now lives in London. We are all in touch, and both are wonderful grandparents to my son and daughter, aged 19 and 13.

My wife and I were high school classmates. I was

VENTSISLAV VALEV

The University of Bath physicist on his love of moths, lasers and ballroom dancing Professor Ventsislav Valev was born in Bulgaria, grew up in France, and finished his undergraduate studies in Cardiff. He came to the University of Bath as a Royal Society Research Fellow and in 2019, was promoted to professor. In 2023, he became the Head of Department of Physics, and in 2025 he was appointed Associate Dean (Research) for the Faculty of Science.

His work spans physics and chemistry and in 2022 his team was awarded the Horizon Prize of the Faraday Division of the Royal Society of Chemistry, and in 2023 he received (jointly) the Thomas Young Medal of the Institute of Physics.

90 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

I hold three citizenships: British, French and Bulgarian.

I arrived in Bath 11 years ago and this is the longest period of time I have spent in the same place since leaving Bulgaria. Bath is a gorgeous city and I love its historic character.

Upon growing up, I wanted to explore strange new worlds;

to seek out new life and new civilisations; to boldly go where no one has gone before. I wanted to be either the captain or the science officer of the spaceship Liberator! My first sci-fi TV love was Blake’s 7; this BBC show was sensational when it aired on the Bulgarian National Television.

I later watched every Star Trek episode and still draw inspiration from the series.

the only boy in the class.

Unbeknownst to me, the girls entered into a pact that, for the entire school year, none shall go out with me, to avoid jealousy. I spent the year surrounded by ice queens. So, part of me was a bit surprised, when I found myself in a relationship with a lovely classmate, on the very first day, after the end of the school year.

twist – chirality is a requirement for the emergence of life.

Scientists around the world are now building artificial building blocks of life that are chiral. My team and I develop laser methods to help them see what these building blocks are doing.

The challenge of science is discovering how the universe works. The universe does not

care about our opinions on race, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, political views, etc.

It is a great equaliser. Scientists from all backgrounds around the world team up and, united, they seek out creative breakthroughs.

We have a light box in our garden to attract and trap moths. There are about 2,500

became pretty good at it, in my opinion (there is little actual evidence). From this sport, I learned how much better my team performs, when I help my partners shine.

species of moths in the UK, and some are exquisitely colourful and elegant. In the morning, together with my daughter, we open the box to observe, photograph and release the moths. While some moths have a bad reputation, many species are prolific pollinators, a key food source for small predators, and a precious part of the biodiversity in Bath.

Working in science involves laser beams, quantum

I set up an extensive school outreach programme.

At university, I discovered ballroom dancing and quickly

teleportation, space exploration, self-assembling nanotechnology, robotics, new species, artificial life forms, etc. Some of that is part of my own research but as Associate Dean for Research I get to be involved in almost all of it.

For me, life is a tantalizing nanotechnology. We know it

works. But how? And what could we create once we understand and re-apply its principles? One key property of life is ‘chirality’ – a sense of twist, like in the helix of DNA. Almost all bio-molecules

Together with students and colleagues from the University of Bath, we have delivered around 80 science workshops on light for primary schools, in and around Bath. Each workshop lasts for two hours. We found that prior to our workshop about 25-30 per cent of children said that they could never become scientists, even if they wanted to. But after our workshops, half of them changed their minds.

For more: www.bath.ac.uk | www.valev.org

Visit our showroom 130 Walcot Street, Bath BA1 5BG | 01225 951223 enquiries@sandjbath.co.uk | sandjbath.co.uk

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f the Year 202

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